Historically, real estate has demonstrated long-term, stable growth in value, making it a reliable hedge against inflation. For example, census data shows that the median home price increased from $172,900 in Q4 2000 to $417,700 in Q4 2023—an average annual appreciation of over 6%.
When you rent, every dollar spent is money you’ll never get back. In contrast, making monthly mortgage payments allows you to build equity and increase your ownership stake in your home over time.
Homeownership also comes with potential tax advantages. If you itemize deductions on your federal tax return, the U.S. Tax Code allows you to deduct mortgage interest, property taxes (up to $10,000 under current tax law), and some costs associated with purchasing a home. However, tax laws can be complex, so be sure to consult with your accountant to determine if itemizing is beneficial for you.
Building equity in your home acts as a built-in savings plan. Furthermore, when it’s time to sell, you can generally exclude up to $250,000 in capital gains ($500,000 for married couples) from federal income taxes. The IRS provides specific guidelines to help determine eligibility for this exclusion.
Unlike rent, which can increase annually, a fixed-rate mortgage provides stable monthly payments. As a result, your housing costs may become a smaller percentage of your income over time. However, it’s important to remember that property taxes and insurance costs may still rise.
Owning a home means having full control over your space. You can personalize it with your choice of décor, upgrades, and amenities to suit your lifestyle—without needing a landlord’s approval.
Finally, homeownership provides a sense of stability. Staying in one neighborhood for several years allows you and your family to build lasting relationships within the community. Additionally, it offers children the advantage of consistent educational and social environments.