Personal Finance

Ramit Sethi says that even if you're not a millionaire, buying a house you can't afford will end up costing you millions

Kristin Hitchcock

Published: November 14, 2024 9:51 am

Last Updated: January 15, 2025 1:10 pm

24/7 Wall St. Key Points:

• It may be tempting to stretch your budget to buy a “better” home, but buying a property you can’t afford can ultimately cost you millions.
• Know how much house you can afford and stick to it. Your future self will thank you. 
• Also: Take this quiz to see if you’re on track to retire ^(Sponsored)

I recently came across a very interesting YouTube video by Ramit Sethi that claimed purchasing a house you can’t afford could literally cost you millions of dollars – even if the house you bought isn’t worth a million!

How could this be? Let’s take a look:

The Hidden Costs of Overbuying a Home

When it comes to buying a house, it’s easy to get caught up in the emotions of finding the perfect place. But when you purchase a home that’s beyond your financial means, the consequences can quickly escalate.

The cost of buying a home isn’t just the purchase price. Yes, it means a higher monthly payment, which could strain your budget. But, this could lead to your cutting back on other financial goals, like retirement and investing. 

If an unexpected expense arises, like a car repair or a medical bill, it could push you even further into debt!

Opportunity Cost: What You Could Be Losing

You also have to consider the opportunity cost of that home. You’ll have more money tied up in a home and less money available to invest, which could potentially cost you a lot in the long run. Whether it’s the extra interest paid on a higher mortgage or the missed opportunity to invest in stocks, bonds, or a retirement account, the long-term cost adds up.

Over 30 years, the total cost of owning that home can also become inflated by property taxes while your ability to invest in making money diminishes. This lost investment chance can cost you hundreds of thousands of dollars, if not millions. 

Know Your Numbers Before You Buy

So, how do you avoid this? The key is to know your numbers before purchasing a home. You must have a clear understanding of your income, monthly expenses, debt obligations, and financial goals. If you don’t have a budget established, now is a great time to get one ready. 

Look at all this information realistically. Don’t stretch it, either. It’s easy to say, “Just $100 more won’t be a big deal,” but that is a slippery slope. 

A good rule of thumb is to keep your total housing costs (mortgage, taxes, insurance, and any other related expenses) under 25-30% of your monthly take-home pay. Don’t forget to consider housing repairs, too, which can be costly. 

Long-Term Benefits of Buying Within Your Means

Buying a home within your means provides tons of benefits beyond just stress reduction. This gives you the opportunity to grow your wealth and plan for the future. You free up your money to contribute towards your financial goals, like saving for retirement of investing in the stock market. 

Plys, your lower housing cost helps you build your financial resilience. If the market shifts or your income changes unexpectedly, you’ll have a cushion ready to help you adjust.