Joan Katz's Advice

When they do answer, be prepared to respond quickly.They expect that you have a lawyer lined up to review their documents within a day or two.This has been my experience.

Flexibility or long-term predictable costs?Liquidity or investment growth potential?Someone else's space or your own to decorate?Move on a whim or put down roots?Depends on what you need...the answers are not only found in comparing dollars in the short run.Rates and prices are so low that it is often cheaper to buy than rent, if you have the financial ability to buy. You can also lock in your monthy costs, whereas rents --at least in my market-- are expected to rise.However, if you don't want the hassles, have no stomach for investment risk, or are not looking to stay put for at least a few years, renting may suit your needs better.Sit down with a Realtor and explore the options.