Maybe you’ve never thought about buying before. You’ve moved around a lot, trying out different places and styles. But now that you’ve found the best location – right here in the Capitol Hill neighborhood of Denver – it may be time to start thinking about it.

Should you rent another condo? Or should you buy?

1. Stability. The average person moves around every 7 years. If your job is stable and you anticipate living and working right here in Denver for a while, buying a condo may be a good opportunity for you.

2. Costs. On a rental, you’ll pay a security deposit and rent every month as long as you are there. When you buy, you’ll pay closing costs and a mortgage payment every month. You rental fees may increase every year, depending on the economy. Your mortgage payments will remain stable with a fixed loan. And you’ll quickly recoup the costs through deductions on your taxes.

3. Investment. Rent is rent; you pay it and it disappears every single month. When you buy a condo, it becomes an investment. When the economy turns around and we begin seeing real estate climb in value again, you may realize a profit from the sale, depending on how long you maintain your condo.

4. Community. Love your neighborhood and want to establish roots? Then buying is for you. You can get to know your neighbors, and develop relationships with the local community.

5. Freedom. Want to paint your walls orange or change the bathroom fixtures? Not a problem if you own. It’s yours, and you can make all the changes you desire.