10/28/2026
Should you rent or buy in Portland? Before you decide, ask yourself three questions: How long will you stay? Can you cover the full cost of ownership, not just the mortgage? And what’s the monthly difference between renting and buying, and what would you do with it? Save this video for when you’re deciding, and DM me if you want help running your numbers.
Here’s why each one matters:
1️⃣ Your timeline. Buying and selling come with big transaction costs, so a shorter stay can make owning hard to justify financially. There’s no magic number of years.
2️⃣ The full cost. Principal and interest are just the start. Add property taxes, homeowners insurance, maintenance and repairs, and any HOA dues or mortgage insurance. You’ll also need cash for your down payment, closing costs, and an emergency fund.
3️⃣ The monthly difference. If renting costs less each month, saving or investing the gap belongs in the comparison, along with what your down payment money could earn elsewhere.
And no, renting isn’t “throwing money away.” Rent pays for housing and flexibility. Buying can build equity, but interest, taxes, insurance, and upkeep are real expenses.
I’m Thom the Realtor, and I’m happy to help you compare Portland homes, understand the costs, and build a plan around your budget and timeline.
