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Mortgage vs Rent Calculator

Compare the total cost of buying with a mortgage versus renting long-term. Factor in house price growth, rent increases and investment returns to decide wisely.

Last reviewed 15 August 2026

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Calculator inputs

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When to use this calculator

  • Before comparing mortgage products, brokers or repayment types.
  • When you want to test how a different deposit, rate or term changes the payment.
  • When you need a quick estimate before using a formal illustration or agreement in principle.
  • When you are stress-testing your budget against a higher rate.

A realistic New Zealand planning example

Use these sample inputs as a quick scenario test, then change one variable at a time to compare outcomes.

A realistic New Zealand planning example
InputValue
Property Price (NZ$)NZ$750,000
Deposit (NZ$)NZ$150,000
Mortgage Rate (%)NZ$600,000
Term (Years)25 years

After entering these figures, review mortgage, rent and difference together rather than in isolation. Then rerun the tool with one input adjusted.

How to read your results

Mortgage

The figure produced by this output for the inputs you entered. Change one variable at a time if you want to see what drives it.

Rent

The figure produced by this output for the inputs you entered. Change one variable at a time if you want to see what drives it.

Difference

The figure produced by this output for the inputs you entered. Change one variable at a time if you want to see what drives it.

Common mistakes

  • !Mixing up loan amount and property value, which distorts affordability and LTV.
  • !Using a headline rate but forgetting fees, insurance or repayment type.
  • !Testing only one term length instead of comparing payment and total cost together.
  • !Treating the result as a lender decision rather than a planning estimate.

What to do next

  • Run a second scenario with a cautious assumption so you can see the downside clearly.
  • Compare the result with the related calculators below before making a decision.
  • Check current local rules, eligibility and provider terms before applying or committing money.
  • Keep a record of the assumptions so you can update the estimate when a quote, bill or pay figure changes.

Frequently asked

This calculator uses the standard amortisation formula to compute monthly payments based on loan amount, interest rate, and term. The formula accounts for compound interest accrued monthly over the loan period.

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