Buy vs Rent Calculator (India)

Estimate break-even timeline using home price, EMI, rent escalation, and home appreciation assumptions.

Decision Summary

Based on current assumptions, Buying appears more favorable over 20 years.

Estimated EMI
₹69,426
Down payment: ₹20,00,000
Break-even Year
Year 4
Final equity: ₹2,65,32,977
Cumulative buying outflow
Cumulative renting outflow

Buy-side composition at analysis end

Total₹5,01,55,076
  • Cash outflow (buy path)
    47.1%
    ₹2,36,22,099
  • Home equity built
    52.9%
    ₹2,65,32,977

Decision cost comparison

Buy effective cost₹0
Rent total outflow₹1,54,49,948

Intro

Buy vs rent is not just an EMI question. It is a long-term cash-flow and wealth decision that depends on rent growth, property appreciation, down payment, and holding period. This calculator helps you compare effective costs and identify when buying may become financially favorable.

Example Calculation

If home price is ₹1 crore with 20% down payment and rent is ₹35,000/month, you can test how different rent-growth and appreciation assumptions change break-even year. This is useful before committing to long-tenure home loans or deciding to keep renting.

How the Formula Works

EMI is computed using reducing-balance amortization. Buying outflow combines down payment, EMI, and ownership overhead assumptions. Renting outflow compounds yearly by rent increase. Break-even is estimated where buy effective cost (cash outflow minus accumulated home equity) becomes lower than rent outflow.

FAQ

Does this include home maintenance costs?

Yes. The model includes a simple annual ownership overhead assumption to avoid unrealistic buy-side underestimation.

Can break-even vary a lot?

Yes. Small changes in appreciation, rent growth, or interest rate can materially shift break-even year.

Should I decide only based on this result?

No. Combine this with liquidity, job stability, location preference, and emergency fund readiness before final decision.

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