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Renting vs. Buying in Today’s Market: How to Decide

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Maybe you’re staring at a lease renewal and feeling… unsure.

Deciding whether to rent or buy a house is rarely a no-brainer, but the choice may seem especially murky right now. Rents are slowly drifting down, but mortgage rates are finally losing a bit of altitude, too, and the real estate market isn’t nearly as frenzied as it was after the pandemic sent everything into overdrive.

In other words, buying may be getting at least a little more affordable, but is it enough to tip the scales, especially if rents keep dropping?

Here’s what math to do — and the factors to weigh.

How to Decide

First off, buying not only requires a significant down payment but a monthly payment that’s often higher than renting. So a purchase may just not be feasible for you right now. (And if it isn’t, you’d be in good company.)

If you think buying might be an option, however, you’ll want to consider not just your budget and credit record, but what’s happening in your local market (which can be very different from the national picture) and, very importantly, how long you expect to stay put.

“One of the key considerations is your breakeven period,” said Brian Walsh, Head of Advice & Planning at SoFi. “If you buy, do you plan on living there long enough to reap the benefits? It can often take 5 to 10 years to breakeven on the down payment and closing costs, but with current home prices and interest rates, this has gotten longer.”

Calculating Break Even

Determining when you would breakeven is core to deciding whether to buy or rent. Essentially, you want to know you’ll live in your house until your cumulative investment in it — including those initial upfront costs — would pay off if you were to sell it.

An online rent-vs-buy calculator can figure this out by comparing the total cost of buying versus renting after one year, two years, 10 years, and so on. It’ll factor in things like property price appreciation and the opportunity cost of tying your down payment up in a house rather than investing it, showing where you’d stand on the two parallel paths over time.

Just input the monthly rent you’re paying and an estimated purchase price and down payment (most calculators will have defaults for prevailing mortgage rates and estimated taxes, insurance, etc., but you can usually change those too.) Then it will estimate how far in the future you would profit from owning.

For example, if you’re renting an apartment for $1,700/month and are weighing whether to buy a $385,000 home with a 10% down payment at a 6.25% mortgage rate, Realtor.com’s calculator says you’d have to live there for nine years before you’d get more out of the purchase than the rental, assuming a 4% price appreciation.

Pro tip: There are many rent-vs-buy calculators available, all with varying input options, levels of detail, and customization. It’s worth poking around on Google to see what’s out there — and which you find easiest and most helpful to use.

Besides the breakeven point, you’ll want to weigh a mix of factors, including market conditions and where you are (and want) in your life.

Reasons to Rent

•  Rents are subsiding: The median asking rent for a 0–2 bedroom unit in a large metro area continues to edge down, falling to $1,696 a month in October, according to Realtor.com data. That’s 3.6% lower than the 2022 peak (though still 17% higher than before the pandemic,) and economists expect the downward trend to continue next year — especially in the South and West — thanks to a boom in new construction.

•  Lower up-front costs: Renting usually involves just a security deposit and first month’s rent — much less than is needed for a 5%-20% down payment and closing costs on a house.

•  More flexibility: Renting is probably the best option if you might move in the next few years or aren’t sure whether your income or circumstances could change. (And you want enough time to benefit from those higher upfront costs if you buy.)

•  No insurance, property taxes, or maintenance costs: Renting means avoiding more than just a mortgage payment. An analysis by Zillow and Thumbtack found insurance, property taxes, and maintenance now cost homeowners an average of nearly $16,000 per year.

•  You don’t have to worry about property values: When you buy, you’re making a bet that the value of your investment will go up rather than down. Avoiding this risk is a significant benefit, especially if you’re unsure how long you’re going to stay put.

Reasons to Buy

•  The chance to build equity: This is the reason to buy, right? Your rent payments don’t do anything for you after you make them, but when you buy, you’re building equity in (i.e. ownership of) your home. Your equity grows as you pay down the balance of your mortgage and if/when the value of your home increases. Many current homeowners have seen it surge since the pandemic spike in property prices.

•  Mortgage rates have eased up: The rate on a new 30-year fixed mortgage averaged 6.19% last week, which is still twice what it was in 2020 and 2021, but essentially the lowest it’s been in over a year. And that could theoretically be as good as it gets for a while, with the Mortgage Bankers Association forecasting that rates will hold in the mid-6% range through 2028.

•  Buyers are gaining leverage: After the pandemic triggered an acute shortage in available properties, the volume of listings is back to normal in many parts of the South and Western U.S., taking the edge off prices and shifting some negotiating power back toward buyers.

•  More control: Homeowners can make their house their own, choosing whether to renovate or how to decorate without seeking a landlord’s approval.

•  Predictability: This benefit has admittedly gotten murkier. While fixed-rate mortgages mean steady mortgage payments (and no rent inflation,) other monthly costs like home insurance can (and have) shot up.

So what?

If you want to be mobile or your life is still in flux, renting — especially in a moment when rents are edging down — remains a low-commitment, flexible choice.

But if you’ve been wanting to make more of your money work for you, and you’re ready to take on the commitment and cost of homeownership, it may be time to start looking.

Related Reading

Home Prices Are Poised to Dip in 22 U.S. Cities Next Year (CBS News)

What to Know Before Buying Your First Home (HGTV)

Housing Prices Are Causing Some People to Have Smaller Families than Planned (NPR)


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Please understand that this information provided is general in nature and shouldn’t be construed as a recommendation or solicitation of any products offered by SoFi’s affiliates and subsidiaries. In addition, this information is by no means meant to provide investment or financial advice, nor is it intended to serve as the basis for any investment decision or recommendation to buy or sell any asset. Keep in mind that investing involves risk, and past performance of an asset never guarantees future results or returns. It’s important for investors to consider their specific financial needs, goals, and risk profile before making an investment decision.

The information and analysis provided through hyperlinks to third party websites, while believed to be accurate, cannot be guaranteed by SoFi. These links are provided for informational purposes and should not be viewed as an endorsement. No brands or products mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this content.

SoFi isn't recommending and is not affiliated with the brands or companies displayed. Brands displayed neither endorse or sponsor this article. Third party trademarks and service marks referenced are property of their respective owners.

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Week Ahead on Wall Street: Hawks Vs. Doves

With the next Federal Reserve meeting front and center, investors should buckle up for what promises to be the most dramatic week left in the year.

While another interest rate cut is nearly fully priced into markets, it’s not likely to be a unanimous choice. Fed officials have been openly divided since the last Fed meeting, and we could see four or five of the 12 voting members dissent.

On one side, the hawks (mostly regional Fed presidents) have argued that the Fed should stop cutting rates because inflation remains too sticky and tariffs pose a new risk. On the other, doves (mostly Fed governors) have said we need another cut because downside risks to the cooling labor market outweigh those concerns.

Complicating all of this – as if monetary policy wasn’t already complicated enough – is that the Fed will release its quarterly Summary of Economic Projections, which include their expectations for economic growth, unemployment, inflation, and rates over the next few years.

How this tug-of-war shakes out will set the tone for the rest of this year, and the next as well. The path forward is anything but settled.

Economic and Earnings Calendar

Monday

•  November New York Fed Survey of Consumer Expectations: This is a measure of peoples’ expectations for inflation, jobs prospects, earnings growth, and more.

Tuesday

•  November NFIB Small Business Optimism: This measures how small business owners feel about current and future economic conditions.

•  October Job Openings: A key measure of business demand for labor is the number of job openings, since reducing openings is easier and preferable to layoffs.

•  Earnings: AutoZone (AZO), Campbell Soup (CPB)

Wednesday

•  3Q Employment Cost Index: This is the most comprehensive measure of worker compensation, including wages, bonuses, benefits and more.

•  FOMC Interest Rate Decision: The Federal Reserve will announce any changes to monetary policy after the conclusion of its two-day FOMC meeting, in addition to providing commentary on the economy. It’s one of eight regularly scheduled meetings per year.

•  November Treasury Statement: This summarizes the U.S. federal government budget by tracking government revenues and expenditures.

•  Weekly Mortgage Applications: Mortgage activity gives insight on demand conditions in the housing market.

•  Earnings: Adobe (ADBE), Nordson (NDSN), Oracle (ORCL), Synopsys (SNPS)

Thursday

•  September Trade Balance: Trade, made up of exports and imports, is an important driver of economic activity.

•  September Wholesale Inventories and Sales: Wholesalers often operate as an intermediary between manufacturers and retailers, serving as a key part of the goods supply chain.

•  Earnings: Broadcom (AVGO), Costco (COST), Lululemon Athletica (LULU)

Friday

•  Fedspeak: Philadelphia Fed President Anna Paulson will discuss the economic outlook at the Delaware State Chamber of Commerce. Cleveland Fed President Beth Hammack will speak at a Real Estate Roundtable Series.

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Please understand that this information provided is general in nature and shouldn’t be construed as a recommendation or solicitation of any products offered by SoFi’s affiliates and subsidiaries. In addition, this information is by no means meant to provide investment or financial advice, nor is it intended to serve as the basis for any investment decision or recommendation to buy or sell any asset. Keep in mind that investing involves risk, and past performance of an asset never guarantees future results or returns. It’s important for investors to consider their specific financial needs, goals, and risk profile before making an investment decision.

The information and analysis provided through hyperlinks to third party websites, while believed to be accurate, cannot be guaranteed by SoFi. These links are provided for informational purposes and should not be viewed as an endorsement. No brands or products mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this content.

SoFi isn't recommending and is not affiliated with the brands or companies displayed. Brands displayed neither endorse or sponsor this article. Third party trademarks and service marks referenced are property of their respective owners.

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Is 690 a Good Credit Score?


Is 690 a Good Credit Score?

690 credit score

On this page:

    By Jennifer Calonia

    (Last Updated – 11/2025)

    A 690 credit score qualifies as a good rating according to popular credit scoring models, like FICO® Score. That said, it is slightly below the current average score of 715 in America.

    If you’re wondering what 690 credit means for you if you need to borrow money, you will likely qualify for a car loan, mortgage, and other types of financing applications. However, you may not be offered the most favorable terms. Those may be reserved for people with a very good or excellent credit rating.

    Read on to learn more about your credit score, what you will likely qualify for, and how to build your credit score.

    Key Points

    •   A 690 credit score is good but slightly below the national average.

    •   Individuals can qualify for various loans and credit cards, though not with the best terms.

    •   Timely payments are essential, constituting 35% of the FICO Score.

    •   Keeping credit utilization low, ideally between 10% and 30%, is crucial.

    •   Diversifying credit types and maintaining old accounts helps improve the score.

    What Does a 690 Credit Score Mean?

    As mentioned above, a 690 credit score means you are in the good range. Credit companies, like FICO, develop a proprietary credit scoring formula and establish credit score ranges. Using this calculation and your past credit activity data, your credit score is calculated. This score helps lenders understand whether your risk level for default as a borrower.

    FICO Scores are generally between 300 to 850. Whether you’re looking at FICO Scores vs. credit scores from another model, the higher your score, the better your chances at approval and getting the lowest interest rates.

    Here are the FICO Score ranges:

    •   Excellent: 800 to 850

    •   Very Good: 740 to 799

    •   Good: 670 to 739

    •   Fair: 580 to 669

    •   Poor: 300 to 579

    A 690 FICO Score means that your credit is good, though a bit lower than the current national average of 719. You will likely qualify for loans and loans of credit, though perhaps not with the best terms.

    💡 Quick Tip: Before choosing a personal loan, ask about the lender’s fees: origination, prepayment, late fees, etc. SoFi personal loans come with no-fee options, and no surprises.

    What Else Can You Get with a 690 Credit Score?

    Having a 690 score means you’ve demonstrated responsible borrowing and repayment habits in the past. Keeping a good score can be rewarding in many ways, including earning access to different types of credit. Here are some specifics.

    Can I Get a Credit Card with a 690 Credit Score?

    If you have a 690 credit score, you’ve already met one eligibility requirement for a variety of credit cards. Although some credit card issuers design cards for those with exceptional credit, others readily accept applicants with good credit, like a 690 FICO Score, or higher.

    However, credit card issuers have their own minimum borrower requirements beyond your credit score. For example, they might evaluate your income, employment, monthly housing payment, and other monthly obligations to decide whether they will approve you, and at what rate and credit limit.

    Can I Get an Auto Loan with a 690 Credit Score?

    Getting an auto loan with a 690 score likely won’t be difficult assuming your income and existing monthly debt payments suggest you can afford the loan. As a point of comparison, most car loans go to borrowers with a credit score of 661 and higher, according to Experian®.

    Like other types of financing, your credit score can have a significant effect on the rate you qualify for and how much you’ll pay in interest over time. Some dealerships offer their own financing, or you can see if you qualify through one of its financing partners. Getting prequalified in advance may help you find the best rate for your situation and keep within budget.

    You might also see what your current bank or credit union offers in terms of loans. With your existing relationship and good credit, you might have a better chance at getting approved at a competitive rate.

    Can I Get a Mortgage with a 690 Credit Score?

    With a 690 FICO Score, you might also qualify for a conventional mortgage loan through a private lender, like a bank or other financial institution. Typically, you need a score of 620 or higher. However, your credit score is only one of many details a home financing lender assesses for its decision. Other factors can include your income and other assets, unpaid debt, your down payment amount, the home’s price, and where the property is located.

    When you’re ready to buy your first or next home, having a strong credit score can help you secure a mortgage loan with a better rate and advantageous borrowing terms.

    There are many types of home loan financing available to borrowers with a 690 score. For example, a Federal Housing Administration (FHA) loan is available to those with a minimum credit score of 500. Homebuyers might explore an FHA loan, for example, if they have good credit but don’t have a sizable down payment.

    Can I Get a Personal Loan with a 690 Credit Score?

    A personal loan or credit card consolidation loan can be a powerful financial tool, whether you want to simplify your debt repayment or are preparing for a large purchase. Since a 690 credit score is good by many lenders’ standards, getting a personal loan is likely possible. Some lenders will approve loans to borrowers with a 610 to 640 or higher scores.

    However, whether a lender is ultimately willing to give you a personal loan depends on the big picture of your borrower profile. The lender expects to see that your personal income can sustain your monthly payments, in addition to your other debt responsibilities. Those with higher scores may have more offers to choose among as well as those with more favorable terms.

    How to Build Your Credit Score

    Having a 690 credit score is a solid achievement. As a good score, it can help carry you through the door to approval with many lenders. However, building your credit score can be even more advantageous, helping you access more favorable terms. Here are some tactics to try:

    •   Make your debt payments on time. Thirty-five percent of your FICO Score is based on your payment activity. Ensure that you’re paying the minimum amount that’s due each month and that the lender receives your payment by your due date.

    •   Don’t max out your credit. Keep your unpaid balances low compared to your available credit limit (no more than 30% and preferably 10%). The amount you owe in relation to your available credit is called credit utilization. This category accounts for 30% of your FICO Score.

    •   Nurture your old accounts. How long you’ve had your credit accounts impacts 15% of your score calculation. FICO considers the average age of all your credit accounts, as well as the age of your oldest open account. If you have a long-standing line of credit you rarely use, it might benefit your score to keep it active and open.

    •   Get experience with different credit types. A diversified portfolio of credit account types contributes to 10% of your credit score. For example, a healthy mix of an auto loan, mortgage, and credit cards can help this category.

    •   But space out new accounts. Ten percent of your score evaluates how many new accounts you have and how frequently you’ve sought out new credit. Even if you weren’t approved for a loan or credit card, a hard credit inquiry can go against the “new credit” category, temporarily lowering your score by several points. If possible, wait at least 12 months before getting new credit.

    The Takeaway

    Is a 690 credit score good? Yes. It’s a solid score that can help you qualify for a new loan or other credit line. This score can open doors for offers for mortgages, car loans, personal loans, and credit cards. However, it can be built further to get the most favorable borrowing options.

    Think twice before turning to high-interest credit cards. Consider a SoFi personal loan instead. SoFi offers competitive fixed rates and same-day funding. See your rate in minutes.


    SoFi’s Personal Loan was named NerdWallet’s 2024 winner for Best Personal Loan overall.

    View your rate

    FAQ

    How big of a loan can I get with a 690 credit score?

    There’s no set amount that you’re guaranteed to get approved for with a 690 score. All lenders and credit card issuers have unique underwriting criteria that determines how much they are willing to loan you.

    How to go from 690 to 750 credit score?

    You can help build your credit score from 690 to 750 with responsible repayment habits and time. Thirty-five percent of your FICO Score is based on your payment history, so you might automate your payments so you never miss a due date. Also, keeping your credit utilization in check — which accounts for 30% of your score — can have a big impact. Ideally, you will only use between 10% and 30% of your credit limit.

    How good is a 690 credit score?

    A 690 score is considered a good rating. Your past borrowing behavior is in line with the average U.S. consumer, though your score is slightly below the current average credit score of 715.

    Photo credit: iStock/Alison Calazans

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    Disclaimer: Many factors affect your credit scores and the interest rates you may receive. SoFi is not a Credit Repair Organization as defined under federal or state law, including the Credit Repair Organizations Act. SoFi does not provide “credit repair” services or advice or assistance regarding “rebuilding” or “improving” your credit record, credit history, or credit rating. For details, see the FTC’s website .



    Non affiliation: SoFi isn’t affiliated with any of the companies highlighted in this article.

    Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.



    Third Party Trademarks: Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Center for Financial Planning, Inc. owns and licenses the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER®

    Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

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    Trade now

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    Investment Type Cost What You Should Know
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    Subsequent Sales: $5

    This fee applies only to sales of securities obtained through an IPO offering within the first 120 days of the IPO.
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    It depends on the investing method:

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    The fee for Automated Investing covers the essential service of professional portfolio management. The 0.25% advisory fee pays for algorithm-driven features like:

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    In Self-Directed Investing, you manage your own portfolio, so there is no management fee.


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    Transferring to SoFi: $0 – We do not charge any fee for incoming transfers (ACATs). If your previous broker charges you a fee, we will reimburse up to $75 when you transfer $5,000 or more.

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