The buy-vs-rent debate doesn't have one right answer — it depends on your finances, career stability, and how long you plan to stay in a city.
When buying makes sense
If you plan to stay in the same city for 7+ years, have a stable income, and can comfortably afford the down payment without draining your emergency fund, buying can build long-term equity.
When renting makes sense
If your job might require relocation, you're early in your career, or you'd rather keep your savings liquid and invested elsewhere, renting offers flexibility that buying doesn't.
Do the math
Compare your estimated EMI (including maintenance and property tax) against comparable rent in the same locality — if renting costs significantly less than the EMI, investing the difference may outperform owning, depending on your investment horizon.
