Quick tips

• Count all the costs. Owning means fees, interest, upkeep and repairs, not just the monthly payment.
• Invest the difference. Renting only wins if the money you save on housing is put to work.
• Fees need time. Buying and selling fees take years of price growth to earn back. Moving in and out is expensive.
• Compare rates. Overpaying the loan earns exactly its rate, risk-free. The higher the rate, the better the deal.
• Renovate with care. Work rarely adds as much value as it costs; lower bills have to make up the rest.