1. Renters' Guide: Introduction
  3. Renters' Guide: Who Rents Property?
  4. Renters' Guide: Benefits of Renting
  5. Renters' Guide: Considerations When Finding A Rental
  6. Renters' Guide: Living With Roommates
  7. Renters' Guide: The Rental Process
  8. Renters' Guide: Renter's Insurance
  9. Renters' Guide: Trading Rent For Mortgage Payments
  10. Renters' Guide: Conclusion

People who rent property rather than purchase a home do so either out of necessity or by choice. People who rent out of necessity may do so because they are:

  • Saving for a down payment on a house
  • Unable to get approved for a mortgage
  • Required to relocate frequently for work, making owning a house impractical

  • They are attracted to the many benefits of renting including flexibility
  • They wish to downsize and simplify their housing situation
  • Owning a home is not a priority
Many retirees sell their homes and choose to rent in order to downsize. In addition, retirees are often attracted to the reduced maintenance responsibilities. As any homeowner knows, taking care of routine maintenance – such as mowing the lawn and cleaning the gutters – and unexpected repairs – like a leaky roof or cracking foundation – are both expensive and time consuming. Many homeowners who have been responsible for the maintenance and upkeep of their homes for many years look forward to handing off those duties during retirement.

SEE: Retirement Living: Renting Vs. Home Ownership

Frequent Travelers
Frequent travelers may find renting appealing because of the reduced maintenance responsibilities and the convenience of having neighbors to keep watch over the empty unit. Additionally, travelers may be able to benefit from amenities like an on-site business center and a 24-hour fitness center.

College Students
College and graduate students often rent in order to move out of campus housing. Renting may offer students more privacy, a more productive atmosphere for studying and the ability to cook their own meals (rather than use the school's cafeteria). Renting may also enable students to bring cars to school (some colleges do not allow students to have cars on campus because parking is so limited), as well as sporting equipments such as bikes or kayaks.

Individuals may prefer renting because of the simplicity, reduced financial obligations and access to social events. Singles may also appreciate the sense of community and the feeling of security that comes from having many neighbors nearby. In some cases, a down payment and the financial obligation of a mortgage might encourage single people to continue renting.

Young Couples

Small Families
Small families may be attracted to renting because of the amenities, financial flexibility and the limited maintenance responsibilities. Many apartment complexes, for example, now offer after school care for children, which is a valuable convenience for working parents. Children and families may enjoy such amenities as on-site swimming pools, playgrounds and game rooms.

Renters' Guide: Benefits of Renting

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