Benefits of Renting a Home

In the economic downturn over the last few years it has become more difficult for many to reach this aspiration, especially for those looking to become first time buyers. Over the long-term property prices have risen drastically and since the economic problems began it has become tougher for people to acquire mortgages. From bordering on irresponsible in the early 2000's, mortgage lenders have become much more cautious, making it more difficult to obtain a mortgage and meaning a higher deposit is required. Having to rent a home, though, is not the end of the world. Here are some of the benefits that renting has over owning your own home.

No Long-Term Commitment

Purchasing a home requires a long-term commitment, something that is not the case when renting. Buying will most likely require a deposit of thousands of pounds while committing to a mortgage that is usually a six-figure sum. You are committing to a long-term contract with a mortgage provider, perhaps over twenty, twenty-five or even thirty years. Renting, on the other hand, will rarely require a contract of more than six months, while a deposit is more likely to be a few hundred pounds rather than tens of thousands of pounds.

Simpler If Circumstances Change

Anyone's circumstances can change. You might change your job where relocation is required. You may find your financial circumstances change and you need to move somewhere cheaper or if you are starting a family you might need extra space. These are all things that will require having to move home, something that is a lot simpler if you are renting. If you own a home and need to sell and buy another one then there is a lengthy process to go through. Your current home will need to be put on the market and you'll need to wait for the right buyer who is willing to pay the right price. You will then have to find a new home and negotiate on that. This all leads to having to go through legal processes and great expense. Having to move from one rented property to another is much easier. You will just need to give a short period of notice to your current landlord and find somewhere else to rent.

There Is Less Risk

If you own a home you are at the mercy of property prices. If your own property decreases in value and you wish to move you are going to lose out financially. Although rental prices change over time, they are less likely to be as significant.

There Is Less Responsibility

Landlords may apply certain rules that lead to a little less freedom but renting means the landlord is responsible for a lot of things that you need to worry about if you own your home. If something breaks, for example, then they will either have to employ someone to fix it or do it themselves. Renting also means you don't have the cost of any work that needs to be done.