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Based on the expected scenario, buying may be the better option over your chosen time horizon. The model projects a positive net worth difference for homeowners, though this depends heavily on home appreciation and investment returns meeting your assumptions.
The Recommendation
For your situation in Austin with $120K income and $45K in savings, buying a $350K home makes sense — but with important caveats. Your monthly housing burden of 28% is within the recommended range, and the 20% down payment avoids PMI entirely.
What Drove This Answer
The key factor is your relatively high savings rate. By preserving $18K for emergencies and investing the remaining savings, your rent-side portfolio grows significantly even while renting...
Is the free calculator really free?
Yes. The full calculator with scenarios, chart, and basic analysis is completely free with no limits.
What does the Pro report include?
A personalized narrative written by AI based on your exact inputs — your city, income, savings, timeline, and risk tolerance. It explains why the model recommends what it does and what could change the answer.
How is the AI analysis different from the free one?
The free analysis uses a template based on your numbers. The Pro analysis is generated by AI that considers all your inputs together and writes a unique explanation — like having a financial advisor review your specific situation.
Is this financial advice?
No. This tool provides estimates based on assumptions you enter. It is not financial, tax, or legal advice. Always consult a qualified professional before making housing decisions.