One of the most common questions I hear in 2026—especially from first-time buyers and renters across the Fraser Valley—is:
“Should we keep renting, or is it finally time to buy?”
With higher interest rates, rising rents, and affordability pressures, the answer isn’t as simple as it once was. Buying isn’t always the right move—but renting long-term comes with trade-offs many people don’t fully consider.
As a Realtor® working across Surrey, Langley, Abbotsford, and Mission, I help clients compare the real financial and lifestyle costs of both options. This guide breaks it down clearly so you can decide what actually makes sense for you in 2026.
Why This Decision Is Harder in 2026
In today’s market:
- Mortgage payments are higher than a few years ago
- Rents across the Fraser Valley continue to rise
- Buyers are more payment-sensitive
- Long-term planning matters more than short-term timing
The old advice of “always buy if you can” no longer applies universally.
The True Cost of Renting in the Fraser Valley
Renting offers flexibility—but it also comes with long-term costs.
Pros of Renting
- Lower upfront costs
- Flexibility to move
- No maintenance responsibility
Cons of Renting
- No equity growth
- Exposure to rent increases
- Limited control over your home
- No long-term payment stability
In many Fraser Valley cities, rent increases over time can exceed what a fixed mortgage payment would have been.
The Real Benefits of Buying in 2026
Buying in the Fraser Valley today isn’t about quick appreciation—it’s about stability and control.
Why Buyers Still Choose to Buy
- Predictable housing costs over time
- Equity accumulation
- Protection against rising rents
- Ability to customize and improve your home
Even in a higher-rate environment, buyers planning to hold for 5+ years often come out ahead.
City-by-City Perspective
Surrey
- Higher rents relative to purchase prices
- Buying often makes sense long-term if you plan to stay put
Langley
- Balanced rent-to-price ratios
- Buying favors families planning long-term ownership
Abbotsford
- More attainable ownership
- Buying often competes directly with renting costs
Mission
- Lower entry pricing
- Buying can be significantly cheaper than long-term renting
The tipping point between renting and buying varies by city and lifestyle.
A Simple Rule of Thumb (Not Financial Advice)
Buying tends to make more sense if:
- You plan to stay 5+ years
- Your monthly ownership cost is within reach
- You value stability and control
- You’re prepared for maintenance responsibility
Renting may make sense if:
- You expect to move soon
- You value flexibility above all else
- Your budget is still tightening
Tools That Help You Decide Smarter
If you’re a first-time buyer, estimating total costs matters.
👉 First-Time Buyer Closing Cost Calculator:
https://gurveersingh.ca/buyers/bc-first-time-buyer-closing-cost-calculator/
For buyers comparing long-term value or rental scenarios:
👉 Investment Property Analyzer:
https://gurveersingh.ca/buyers/investment-property-analyzer/
These tools help remove guesswork from the decision.
The Biggest Mistake People Make
Many renters compare:
“My rent today vs. a mortgage payment today.”
Instead, the better comparison is:
Rent over 10 years vs. ownership over 10 years.
Time changes the math dramatically.
So… Should You Buy or Rent in 2026?
There’s no universal answer—but there is a right answer for your situation.
Buying isn’t about timing the market perfectly.
It’s about choosing stability, lifestyle fit, and long-term direction.
Want Help Deciding?
📘 Buyer’s Guide:
https://gurveersingh.ca/buyers/
📅 Book a Consultation:
https://calendly.com/gurveer-gurveersingh/contact
I help Fraser Valley buyers compare real numbers, not assumptions, so they make confident decisions—whether that means buying now or waiting strategically.
Disclosure
Gurveer Singh is an independently licensed Realtor® with Real Broker.
This content is for informational purposes only and not intended to solicit clients already under contract.
Information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed. This is not intended to breach any existing agency relationship.
