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Rent vs. Buy Calculator

Compare renting against buying around a PCS timeline. The model includes mortgage P&I, taxes, insurance, HOA, 1% annual maintenance, purchase closing costs, rent inflation, appreciation, and sale costs.

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Rent vs. Buy Inputs

Adjust the values to match your situation.

PCS Timeline (Years at Station)

Estimated Monthly Rent

Prospective Home Price

Interest Rate (%)

Home Appreciation (%/yr)

Rent Inflation (%/yr)

Purchase Closing Costs (%)

Down Payment

%($0)

Property Tax Rate (%/yr)

Home Insurance ($/yr)

HOA ($/mo)

Official Sources

The model is a planning estimate. These official references anchor housing and mortgage assumptions users should verify before buying.

Consumer Financial Protection Bureau: Buying a HouseFederal guidance on mortgages, closing costs, and comparing loan options.VA: Home Loan Funding FeeOfficial VA reference for VA loan funding fees and closing costs excluded from this simplified model.