Good to know
Is this financial advice?
No — it is a simplified illustration to help you think it through, not personal advice. Property, interest rates, rents and share returns all move in ways no calculator can predict. Use it as a conversation starter.
How does it compare fairly?
It assumes a renter invests the deposit, plus any month where renting costs less than buying, at an assumed return. The buyer builds equity as the loan reduces and (assuming growth) the home rises in value, less selling costs. Both paths are tracked month by month.
What is not included?
Tax (negative gearing, CGT, no CGT on your home), first-home grants, strata fees, insurance specifics, and the non-financial value of owning. A broker and your accountant can factor those in.