Buying vs. Renting in Highlands Ranch: What Could You Build in 10 Years?
When it comes to housing in Highlands Ranch, many people face the classic question: Should I keep renting, or is it time to buy?
Renting offers flexibility—but what’s the long-term cost of that flexibility? And more importantly, what could you be building if you bought a home instead?
Let’s break it down.
Renting in Highlands Ranch
Renting a single-family home or townhome in Highlands Ranch now averages around $3,044 per month. Over the next 10 years, assuming a modest 3% annual increase in rent (a conservative estimate in this desirable community), you could expect to pay:
Total rent paid in 10 years:
Approximately $421,000
And none of that builds equity.
That’s money going toward someone else’s mortgage and someone else’s long-term financial growth.
Buying in Highlands Ranch: Equity in 10 Years
Now let’s say you purchase a home at the median price of $715,133, with a 10% down payment and a fixed interest rate around 6.5%.
Here’s what that could look like over 10 years:
Estimated Monthly Mortgage:
Around $4,400 per month, including taxes, insurance, and HOA fees.
Mortgage Principal Paid in 10 Years:
Approximately $130,000 to $145,000
Home Appreciation Over 10 Years:
Assuming a conservative 3.5% annual increase, your home could be worth approximately $1,006,000.
Estimated Total Equity After 10 Years:
Between $420,000 and $460,000
(This includes your equity from both principal paydown and appreciation, minus estimated selling costs.)
The Bottom Line
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Renting at $3,044 per month over 10 years means paying over $421,000 with nothing to show for it.
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Buying at $715,133 and staying for 10 years could potentially earn you over $400,000 in equity.
- That is $821,000 swing. If you rent, you pay $421,000 and lose out on the $400,000 in equity
While renting may feel more affordable month to month, the long-term financial benefits of homeownership are clear—especially in a strong community like Highlands Ranch.
Know Before You Sign
Whether you’re renting or buying, it’s important to calculate all of the costs up front—monthly payments, taxes, insurance, maintenance, and more. There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, and it’s not just about a mortgage being “cheaper than rent.”
And beware of real estate scams or “get rich quick” promises. Building real wealth in real estate is a tried and true, long-term game—not an overnight windfall. Buying smart, staying informed, and being patient is how you truly win.
Let's Explore Your Options
We help buyers in Highlands Ranch and the greater South Denver area understand the numbers, make confident decisions, and find the right home for their future. If you're curious what buying would look like for you, we can create a personalized equity projection based on your goals.
Reach out anytime. There's no pressure—just honest information to help you plan wisely.
