Rent vs Buy Calculator: Is Buying a Home Worth It?
Should you keep renting or buy a home? Compare the full cost of each over the years, including down payment, mortgage interest, maintenance, rent increases and what your money could earn if invested.
Open the free Rent vs Buy Calculator →What is the Rent vs Buy Calculator?
Compare the cost of renting versus buying a home over a number of years. It's completely free, needs no sign-up and works on any phone or computer.
Why it's helpful
- Compares buyer equity against a renter who invests the difference
- Includes maintenance, fees and rent increases
- Shows the break-even year
Who it's for
UAE residents and anyone deciding whether to buy property.
How to use it
- Enter the property and mortgage details, then your current rent.
- The renter is assumed to invest the money a buyer would spend upfront.
💻 Open source: this tool is free and open source (MIT License). View the code on GitHub, download it and run it offline.
The bigger picture: Calculators
Everyday decisions in the UAE, from loans and rent to gratuity, fuel and bills, come down to a few numbers. Quick, reliable calculators help you check offers, plan ahead and avoid costly surprises, without spreadsheets or sign-ups.
What's changing: Living costs in the UAE change month to month, from petrol prices to rents, which is why calculators that load current figures automatically are becoming more useful than static ones.
Frequently asked questions
What fees apply in Dubai?
Typically 4% DLD transfer fee, about 2% agency fee, plus mortgage registration and valuation. Check current rates.
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