By Arosh John | Founder, John Real Estate | Chief Editor, Thane Real Estate News
Buying a home is not just an emotional decision; it’s a smart financial move that offers a significant level of security. It’s about ownership, and an asset that appreciates while you live in it. Renting may offer short-term flexibility, but in the long run, buying usually proves more advantageous if your finances allow it, providing a strong sense of financial security.
Why Buying Has the Edge
1) Stability of Costs
- Rent agreements typically rise 5–10% each year.
- A home loan EMI may fluctuate with interest rates, but as income grows, your EMI becomes easier to service.
- Over 10–15 years, rents often surpass EMIs for comparable homes.
2) Equity + Appreciation
- Every EMI adds to your ownership stake.
- Residential property in India has shown steady appreciation, driven by robust infrastructure and sustained demand.
- Rent, in contrast, builds no wealth—it’s payment for usage, not ownership.
3) Security & Control
- A landlord can still request that you vacate, even if there are lock-in or notice clauses in place.
- Owners don’t face that uncertainty—you decide how long you stay, and how you design your space.
4) Hidden Costs of Renting
- Moving every few years means brokerage, shifting costs, new deposits, and mental stress.
- Rental escalations and society charges add to unpredictability.
5) Psychological Value
- Beyond financial benefits, owning a home provides stability, pride, and a sense of belonging.
- It’s the one asset that you enjoy daily while it quietly appreciates in value.
Busting Common Myths
Myth 1: Renting is always cheaper in the long term.
Fact: Rental yields in India average 2–4%, among the lowest globally. As rents rise year after year, the gap with EMIs narrows.
Myth 2: EMIs keep going up forever.
Fact: EMIs rise and fall with RBI rate cycles. Rents almost always move one way—up.
Myth 3: Rent = flexibility, Buy = burden.
Fact: Renting gives flexibility in the short term. Buying provides both long-term financial security and lifestyle stability.
Myth 4: Buying makes sense only for tax breaks.
Fact: With the New Tax Regime, tax perks are minimal. Buying is about equity, stability, and asset growth—not deductions.
👉 For a detailed breakdown of EMIs vs rents with Thane-specific examples, read my earlier article: Buy vs Rent: The Evergreen Question — Let’s Think of It in 2025.
A Word on Influencers
It’s easy to say “rent, don’t buy” when you already own a property or live in one your parents bought. Many influencers preaching renting either hold assets quietly or earn from different realities.
Don’t let viral hot-takes drive your decision. Your own financial readiness, your horizon, and your goals should be the primary factors shaping your choice.
When Renting Makes Sense
Renting is not “bad.” It’s a tool for flexibility, and the right choice if:
- You expect to move cities within <5 years.
- Your career or business requires mobility.
- You’re still building your down payment or emergency fund.
- You want to test a location before committing long-term.
But renting for decades without investing the surplus elsewhere is rarely a winning strategy.
Bottom Line
If your finances allow and your horizon is long-term, buying usually wins. It converts monthly outgo into equity, protects you from rent inflation, and provides the security that renting cannot. This long-term financial benefit should give you optimism and hope about your investment.
👉 Renting is a convenience. Buying is a foundation.
For the financial side of this debate—including real Thane numbers—see my earlier explainer: Buy vs Rent 2025.
Editor’s Note
This article is for readers who are financially capable of buying a home. It isn’t prescriptive—it’s an explainer to help you think through myths and make an informed choice.
About the Author
Arosh John is a leading real estate consultant in Thane, the Founder of John Real Estate, and Chief Editor of Thane Real Estate News. Widely recognised as one of Thane’s top property advisors, he specialises in luxury housing, investments, and infrastructure-driven growth. Through his writing, he aims to simplify complex real estate decisions and position Thane as one of MMR’s most compelling markets.
Disclaimer
This article is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The insights are based on prevailing market trends, typical rental escalation patterns, and general financial principles. Real estate outcomes vary significantly by location, project, loan terms, and personal circumstances. This should not be construed as financial, tax, or legal advice. Readers are strongly encouraged to consult qualified professionals before making any property or investment decision.
