Should I Rent or Buy in 2025? Insights from Tim Scheib, Des Moines Real Estate Professional with Real Broker

It’s a question that shapes futures: “Should I rent or buy?” In 2025, many Des Moines residents are weighing the options, especially as markets shift, interest rates fluctuate, and personal situations evolve. There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but careful analysis of local trends, financial impacts, and lifestyle goals can help you make the right choice.

1. Financial Comparison: Rent vs. Buy
The backbone of this decision is your budget. Renting may come with a lower barrier to entry—no down payment, less responsibility, and predictable monthly costs. However, in Des Moines, monthly rents have steadily increased, often approaching or exceeding the cost of owning a modest single-family home, especially when you factor in building equity.

When you buy, you invest upfront (down payment, closing costs) but gain in long-term stability. Your monthly mortgage payment builds equity and, over time, your home's value can appreciate. Unlike rent, which is subject to annual increase, a fixed-rate mortgage locks your principal and interest in place for years.

2. Flexibility and Commitment
Renting is ideal for those seeking mobility. If your career, personal life, or family situation may change soon, signing a short-term lease leaves you unencumbered. Renting allows for easy relocation and minimal responsibilities around repairs and property management.

Buying, on the other hand, brings deep roots. If you’re committed to Des Moines and plan to stay for at least three to five years, buying offers financial and lifestyle advantages. Homeownership means greater control over your living environment, personalization, and security against sudden lease changes.

3. Market Trends in Des Moines 2025
Des Moines stands out for affordable home prices and stable growth. In 2025, low interest rates and healthy inventory mean buyers have access to diverse homes. While the market has cooled slightly after post-pandemic peaks, it remains competitive—particularly for entry-level homes.

Rents have climbed, driven by demand for downtown living, new developments, and population growth. If you’re considering rental, compare current rent rates with projected mortgage payments (including taxes and insurance) to see what fits your lifestyle.

4. Building Wealth vs. Paying for Convenience
Buying builds wealth. Every mortgage payment increases your equity, and potential home appreciation further boosts your net worth. Homeownership can unlock tax benefits too—mortgage interest and property taxes may be deductible, depending on your filing.

Renting pays for convenience. You’re not responsible for repairs, property taxes, or insurance (beyond renter’s insurance), and upfront costs are low. However, at the end of your lease, there’s no ownership or return on investment.

5. Maintenance and Personalization
Do you want control over your property—paint, landscaping, renovations, or building a backyard oasis? Ownership unlocks unlimited options. Renting means working within landlord restrictions—no major changes and limited personalization.

6. Down Payment Assistance and Loans
Des Moines offers multiple first-time buyer programs, including grants, forgivable loans, and below-market financing. I guide buyers through these, often making down payments surprisingly affordable. If saving feels overwhelming, we’ll map a path forward.

7. Lifestyle and Community
Homeownership creates deep local ties. You’ll find yourself more invested in civic groups, neighborhood associations, and local projects. Renting is perfect for those in transition—a new job, students, or early financial planning.

8. How to Decide?

• If flexibility, low commitment, and convenience are top priorities, renting is a great fit.

• If stability, building wealth, and control over your living space matter most, buying tips the scales.

Personal Guidance from Tim Scheib
Uncertain? Let’s walk through numbers together—total costs, equity projections, and your future plans. Des Moines offers outstanding opportunities for both renters and buyers, and my mission is to help you land where you’ll be happiest.

Send me a message to schedule a free consultation. Whether you want a rent-vs-buy calculator, a tour of rental options, or a first-time buyer roadmap, I’m here to support your journey!