Rent Prices Are Rising. Buying Might Be An Attractive Option

The U.S. rental housing market has witnessed a significant increase, with over 35% of households choosing to rent their homes. This is according to data from the U.S. Census Bureau. However, with soaring rental costs and fluctuating market trends, many individuals are considering the benefits of homeownership as an alternative. In this blog, we’ll explore the reasons behind the rising cost of rent and examine the latest data to understand if rent prices are slowing down. We will also discuss the advantages of buying versus renting and how it might be a viable option for you.

Let’s first take a look at the many factors contributing to the surge in rental prices.

Inflation: Increasing costs across the board result in landlords passing on higher expenses to renters. This leads to a cyclical effect where rents continuously rise with inflation.

Lack of Inventory: A scarcity of vacant rental properties, especially affordable ones, has intensified the competition and drives rental prices even higher.

Post-Pandemic Adjustments: Landlords are compensating for pandemic-era rent freezes and steep discounts in urban areas by raising prices on new units and lease renewals.

Shifting Workforce: The rise of remote work during the pandemic has driven deep-pocketed renters to seek larger homes in previously low-cost areas, increasing rents in suburban regions.

Growing Demand for Single Living: Prospective renters increasingly prefer studio and one-bedroom apartments, creating higher demand and contributing to rent hikes.

Barriers to Homeownership: High demand, low inventory of existing homes, rising mortgage interest rates, and supply chain disruptions has pushed more people toward renting.

Positive developments: multifamily construction and affordable housing initiatives

According to the latest data from Zillow‘s rental report for June 2023, rent price increases are showing signs of slowing down. Cumulatively, rent has risen 2.4% in the first half of 2023, compared to 3.5% by the mid-point of 2020. The report also indicates that typical asking rents in the U.S. are now $2,054, representing a 4.1% increase from the previous year. Rent hit its peak growth of 16.2% year-over-year in February 2022.

While rent prices were on the rise, there have been two very positive developments that impacted the rental housing market:

1. Multifamily Construction: In 2022, multifamily construction reached a 50-year high nationwide, potentially mitigating overall rent costs by increasing housing supply.
2. Inclusionary Housing: Many cities require developers to include affordable housing in new projects, creating more options for renters looking for affordable units.

Buying might be an attractive option for you:

During these years of rising rental costs, some individuals are exploring the benefits of homeownership. Let’s take a look at some of those advantages:

Building Equity: Homeowners build equity over time, contributing to long-term wealth accumulation.

Stability and Control: Homeownership provides stability, as homeowners have control over their living space without the uncertainty of lease renewals and potential rent hikes.

Tax Benefits: Homeowners can often benefit from tax deductions on mortgage interest and property taxes.

Customization: Owning a home allows for personalization and customization to suit individual preferences and needs.

Potential Appreciation: Real estate historically appreciates over time, potentially increasing the value of the property and providing a return on investment.

Only you will know whether renting or buying a home is best for you.

Whether you have plans to rent or buy a home, working with a Realtor to make an informed decision is a smart idea.  A real estate professional can guide you through the decision-making process and help you carefully consider your financial situation and long-term goals, thus making that decision much easier.

No matter what you do, be sure to sign up for my exclusive Neighborhood News newsletter.  Staying up to date with the latest rentals, property listings, market trends, and real estate transactions will also help you make wise decisions.  And when it’s time to consider a move, reach out! Together, we’ll find the perfect home for you!