Should you rent or buy is a question snowbirds often ask themselves. — And for snowbirds traveling on a shoestring budget, the answer can simply come down to affordability.
Whether you should rent or buy in your chosen location can be resolved by reviewing the pros and cons and deciding what options best meet your particular circumstances.
Everyone is a little different, and so are the factors that weigh in on their decision-making. The choices that lead one snowbird to decide to rent vs. buy might lead yet another to take the opposite tack.
Make up a “Pros and Cons” list for yourself and go through it with your unique circumstances in mind. Then take an objective look at your budget. — And decide what you can afford and what you need.
Of course, renting makes the most sense if you’re starting out exploring the snowbird lifestyle or checking out different locales.
Renting allows you to change your house or unit and your location when you want. It is a big incentive for adventurous snowbirds as well as first-timers.
When the plumbing acts up or the roof leaks, it’s not yours to deal with. The costs of homeownership aren’t yours either.
And no complicated tax laws, potential landlord obligations, or estate planning need to be considered and dealt with.
Finding suitable rentals in your favorite area over the high season can be challenging. But when you find a place you like that suits you, try and book for the next season before you leave.
If you need a few things to make life more comfortable and homey in your rental… and want to keep them for future years… you can usually find someplace to store a tub or two.
Pets can complicate life when you travel. But, many landlords recognize that small pets are a must for some folks. — So keep looking. And you should find a rental unit with pets allowed.
Knowing you have a place of your own and the flexibility to go whenever you choose is important to some people. So is decorating your digs to suit yourself. — And setting up your kitchen with the appliances, tools, and gadgets you find indispensable.
When you’re not using the property, you may be able to rent it out. While this will help cover ownership costs, it does come with being a landlord. — And you’ll need to stash your personal things away when you’re gone.
Costs. Costs. Costs. Owning a second home means double the expenses. And your home in a warm climate can mean as much or more upkeep costs when you’re gone for the summer as when you’re there for the winter.
Lawns and gardens grow quickly in the hot summer weather and need tending. Leaving your home locked up and shuttered in a brutally hot climate may not be wise.
There are legal ramifications of owning a second home, whether in a different state or country. Run your potential purchase by your lawyer, accountant, and financial planner. Do your research as you ponder whether to rent or buy.
Americans will need to choose which state to class as their primary residence and understand the pluses and minuses involved.
Canadians buying in the US need to be aware of the pitfalls of being deemed US residents and being required to file US taxes.
Estate planning can be complicated. And property sales in the Sates are subject to US Capitol Gains.
Buying property in Mexico has complexities for non-residents. Including bank trusts and issues with whose name the property is held.
And when news of a catastrophe hits in your second home’s backyard, would you rather be a renter? Or an owner?
Simply put. — Keep it simple. Decide what is the most straightforward path to take for your situation.
Don’t complicate your life to keep up with the Joneses. Your decision to rent or buy should be affordable, not stretch your budget too thin, or cause you undue anxiety.
The snowbird lifestyle should be pleasant and rewarding, with as little stress as possible.