Smart Move Des Moines | Navigation
📞 (563) 513-8771 | ✉️ [email protected] | 📲 Download app
Rent vs Buy Calculator Des Moines | Should I Rent or Buy a Home? | Smart Move DSM
🏠 Free Calculator

Rent vs Buy Calculator

Compare the true cost of renting versus buying a home in Des Moines — see which makes more sense for your situation and timeline.

Run Your Numbers

Enter your home price, rent, and assumptions to compare total costs over time.

Home Purchase
$
Des Moines metro median: $285K-$375K
%
First-time buyers typically put 3-10% down
%
Current mortgage rate estimate
years
Most buyers use 30-year fixed
% / year
Iowa average: 1.5-2% of home value
$/ yr
Annual homeowner's insurance
% / yr
Rule of thumb: 1-2% of home value
$/ mo
Monthly HOA if applicable
Renting
$/ mo
Current or expected rent payment
% / yr
Average rent increase each year
Your Timeline
years
Owning usually wins at 5+ years
% / yr
Des Moines averages 4-6% annually

This calculator provides estimates for educational purposes only. Results do not include PMI, closing costs, selling costs, tax benefits, or investment returns. Consult a lender and real estate professional for personalized advice.

📊

Time Horizon Matters

The longer you stay, the more buying typically wins. In Des Moines, the breakeven is often 3-5 years in growing suburbs due to strong appreciation.

🏠

Build Equity vs. Pay Rent

Every mortgage payment builds equity in YOUR asset. Over 7 years, you could build $100K+ in equity.

💰

Des Moines Advantage

Des Moines offers affordable entry points ($275K-$375K median) compared to coastal cities. Lower prices + strong appreciation = excellent ownership opportunity.

Sarah Ingles, REALTOR® SRES®

Sarah Ingles

REALTOR® SRES® | 10+ Years Insurance Expertise

Ready to stop paying your landlord's mortgage? I help renters become homeowners in the Des Moines metro. With my insurance background, I ensure you understand ALL the costs — not just the mortgage payment.

📞 563-513-8771