Buying vs. Renting in Chino, CA – Is It Worth Buying at $799,000?

If you’re debating whether to buy or rent in Chino, CA, you’re not alone. With home prices hovering around $799,000 and mortgage rates averaging 6.25% (APR 6.397%) for 95% conventional loans, it’s important to weigh the long-term benefits of ownership versus the flexibility of renting.

Let’s break it down with some realistic numbers.


📊 Home Purchase Scenario

  • Home Price: $799,000
  • Down Payment (5%): $39,950
  • Loan Amount: $759,050
  • Interest Rate: 6.25%
  • APR: 6.397%
  • Loan Term: 30 years (fixed)
  • Forecasted Appreciation: 5.18% annually over 9 years

Monthly Costs:

  • Principal & Interest: ~$4,671
  • Property Taxes (1.25% est.): ~$832/month
  • Home Insurance: ~$100/month
  • PMI (Private Mortgage Insurance): ~$270/month (estimated)
  • Total Estimated Monthly Cost: ~$5,873

📉 Renting the Same Home

A comparable rental in Chino might cost around $3,400/month, depending on size and amenities. Renting avoids many of the costs tied to homeownership (repairs, taxes, insurance, PMI).


💰 9-Year Financial Picture

Buying:

  • Total Mortgage Payments (9 yrs): ~$504,000
  • Total Estimated Costs (including tax, PMI, insurance): ~$635,000
  • Home Value After 9 Years (5.18% appreciation):
    ≈ $1,291,500
  • Equity Gained (including loan principal paid): ≈ $613,000

Renting:

  • Total Rent Paid (9 yrs @ 3.5% annual increase): ≈ $393,000
  • Equity Gained: $0

🧮 Net Benefit of Buying

If you sell the home in 9 years (minus ~7% selling costs):

  • Net Sales Proceeds: ≈ $1,200,000
  • Remaining Loan Balance: ≈ $638,000
  • Net Equity After Sale: ≈ $562,000

Even after paying more per month, buying results in substantial wealth building through appreciation and equity.


✅ Final Verdict: Buy or Rent?

If you plan to stay in Chino for at least 7–9 yearsbuying makes strong financial sense. Yes, the monthly payment is higher, but you’re building equity in a rapidly appreciating market (5.18% annually). Renting, while cheaper short-term, results in no long-term return.