While there are some pretty sweet benefits to buying your own home in New Zealand, sometimes it actually makes more sense to rent than purchase. Here are three reasons why renting can be superior:

1. Greater flexibility

When you lock yourself into a mortgage, it goes without saying that you sacrifice a little bit of freedom. Being able to meet your financial obligations and consistently make loan repayments often takes precedence over many other aspects of life.

In contrast, as a tenant you have relatively few commitments, enabling you to pursue other options, such as travel, study and possible career changes.

2. Rent can be cheaper than mortgage repayments

Depending on market conditions, rental rates can be significantly lower than mortgage repayments.

For example, the average Auckland house price increased by about NZ$88,000 in the last year, while weekly rents increased just $1 across the same period, according to figures collated in the latest Trade Me Property Rental Index.

Of course, the real estate landscape is constantly shifting, making it important to compare New Zealand home loan rates to ensure you’re making a decision that best suits your financial circumstances.

3. No maintenance worries

Renting also eliminates most expenses associated with maintaining a property. As the New Zealand government’s Tenancy Services portal explains, landlords are responsible for repairing all damage caused by natural disasters, burglaries, and fair wear and tear.

As a homeowner, guess who’s footing the bill if something breaks?

To compare home loan rates, see Pocketwise.co.nz.

First published 19 April 2018

Story by Jareth Trigwell, from Pocketwise.co.nz

JUNO does not contain financial advice as defined by the Financial Advisers Act 2008. Consult a suitably qualified financial adviser before making investment decisions. This story reflects the views of the contributor only. Content comes from sources that JUNO considers accurate, but we do not guarantee that the content is accurate. Charts are visually indicative only.