Happily Renting: Why We Chose to Rent Our Dream Home Instead of Buying

For years, we thought homeownership was the ultimate goal. After all, that’s what society tells us—buy a house, settle down, and build equity. But guess what? We chose to rent our dream home, a beautifully remodeled 1920s charmer in the heart of the downtown historic district of Murfreesboro, TN. And we couldn’t be happier.

The Perks of Renting Our Dream Home

Renting often gets a bad rap, but for us, it has been the perfect choice. Here’s why:

1. Affordability

While rental prices are certainly on the rise, our rent is still significantly lower than what a mortgage (plus property taxes, homeowners’ insurance, and maintenance costs) would be for a home like ours. Renting allows us to live in a home and neighborhood we adore without the financial burden of ownership.

2. Low Maintenance Living

Owning a home comes with a never-ending to-do list—repairs, renovations, unexpected expenses. As renters, we get to enjoy our beautifully updated vintage home without the stress of fixing a leaky roof or replacing an aging water heater. If something breaks, a quick call to our landlord takes care of it.

3. Historic Charm Without the Upkeep

Our home is a 1920s gem that has been tastefully remodeled while keeping its old-school charm intact—original hardwood floors, gorgeous molding, and large, sun-filled windows. But maintaining a historic home can be costly and time-consuming. Renting allows us to appreciate its beauty without the responsibility of preserving it ourselves.

4. The Perfect Location

Nestled in Murfreesboro’s downtown historic district, our neighborhood feels like a step back in time—in the best way possible. The tree-lined streets and sidewalks remind us of childhood, where kids still ride bikes in the evenings and neighbors stop to chat.

Just a short walk away, we have locally owned coffee shops and diners with outdoor seating, perfect for cool summer evening strolls. The charming downtown square hosts a vibrant farmers’ market every weekend in the spring and summer, where we can grab fresh produce and support local artisans. And let’s not forget Historic Oaklands Mansion, which hosts events year-round, adding to the cultural richness of our community.

5. Flexibility and Freedom

Life changes, and renting gives us the flexibility to adapt without being tied down to a mortgage. If we ever decide to move or explore new opportunities, we can do so without the stress of selling a house in an unpredictable market.

A Wonderful Place to Call Home

Whether you’re raising a family or enjoying life as an empty nester, our neighborhood offers the perfect balance of nostalgia and modern convenience. Renting has allowed us to embrace this lifestyle without the long-term financial and maintenance commitments of homeownership. And for us, that’s a dream come true.

So, if you’ve ever felt pressured to buy a home because it’s “the thing to do,” remember—home is where you’re happiest, whether you own it or not.