renter resource

When is renting a good idea?

While I'm a strong advocate for owning real estate, renting can be the right choice in certain situations.

  • Still saving for a down payment? You only need around 5% plus a few months of reserves. Once you’re close, let’s start exploring available homes.

  • New to the area? Renting first can help you decide if a location is the right fit.

  • Enjoying low rent or stress-free living? If your rent is below market and you like the convenience of not handling repairs, renting might be best for now — but keep an eye on home options.

If you need help finding a rental or want to join my renter database (for first access to vacancies), reach out today!

Renter Resources
Looking up a modern glass skyscraper from street level with multiple glass balconies and a beige stone facade at the bottom.

First respectable landlord I’ve had, and Spencer made our transition back to the US a lot easier. Overall landlord experience made it easy to choose him as a realtor, and happy to have him as a landlord/then realtor.

–– Sam

A dirt path running through a green forest with large trees lining both sides.

RENT VS OWN

All Numbers are Based on 3 bedroom homes and mortgage rates as of July 2026

Table showing Rent and Ownership Waste costs with ZIP codes.

In the 53703 zip code (includes areas surrounding the capital) the median price is $662,500. That location has the smallest gap between rent cost and ownership waste. There aren’t many purchase options and the rent prices are the highest in the area. This is the only obvious area where renting makes more sense.

In the 53718 zip code (includes near East Towne Mall of Madison, and includes Token Creek Park) the median price is $451,250. This is the first time we’ve seen this zip top the list for places to buy not rent. The gap between ownership waste and rent prices is the highest in the area. Meaning buying still makes more sense here than renting. Rents have continued to increase, 2nd most expensive in the area while home prices have leveled off. Still one of the LEAST expensive locations in Dane County.