A new study has concluded that Connecticut is one of the most expensive states in which to rent, making it a place where people should definitely consider buying instead. Our vacancy rate for rentals, particularly in New Haven, is one of the lowest in the country, and that, of course, pushes monthly rental costs up. Because our housing prices in general are 20% below where they were in 2006, there are some relative bargains still to be had on the buying front. The combination of a rapid rise in monthly rents, combined with a still-depressed purchase market, means that renters should think before deciding not to buy. And, if you combine those facts with current mortgage rates, they should think twice!
Although there are many articles that warn against buying unless you are going to stay put for several years, the combination of factors above would argue that that length of time might be shorter. If you happen to get really lucky, appreciation on the home price could pay all of the moving costs and more. There can definitely be valid reasons to rent instead, but everyone now should be doing the math before making up their minds.
