Question:
The real estate agent tells the Bergholts that if they don't care to purchase, they might consider renting. The rental option would cost $1,400/month plus utilities estimated at $220 and renter's insurance of $25/month. The Bergholts believe that neither of them is likely to be transferred to another location within the next five years. After that, Dan perceives that he might move out of government service into the private sector. Assuming they remain in the same place for the next five years, the Bergholts would like to know if it is better to buy or rent the home. They expect that the price of housing and rents will rise at an annual rate of 3% over the next five years. They expect to earn an annual rate of 4% on the money market fund. All other prices, including utilities, maintenance, and taxes are expected to increase at a 3% annual rate. After federal, state, and local taxes, they get to keep only 55% of a marginal dollar of earnings.
Estimate whether it is financially more attractive for the Bergholts to rent or to purchase the home over a five-year holding period. (Assuming the contract interest rate of 8%, monthly interest payments over the five-year period would total $87,574.)