Looking for a home loan, but you're uncertain whether its best to buy or to rent at this time? Well, here are a few thoughts on the subject.

If you look at the numbers, renting looks like a better buy for the first year. The rent payment is usually less than the house payment, even when you figure in the mortgage tax deduction.

But think again. Rents tend to increase 3-5% per year, while a 30 year fixed home loan will not increase for the life of the mortgage. Within just a few years, the rental payment will be larger than the house payment.

When looking for a home loan, the best path to take is to compare loans from different sites. And by all means contact your local financial institutions. Often the best deals are not on the net but down the street.