What most people forget to count

  • The rate you’re giving up. If you locked in a low rate, your new loan may cost far more per dollar borrowed. The calculator shows first-year interest both ways.
  • Paying for two homes. Buying before you sell can mean a month or more of double payments and utilities.
  • The cost of selling again later. Every move resets the clock on getting back the cost of buying and selling.
  • A bigger home costs more to run. Maintenance, utilities and insurance grow with size and price.
  • Your cushion. Putting every dollar of equity into the next home can leave you with no emergency fund.

Not every good move makes money. Room for a growing family, a shorter commute or being near people you love can be well worth the cost. The goal is to know the number before you decide. For the rent-or-buy side of the same question, try the rent vs. buy calculator.

Frequently asked questions

How much does it cost to sell a house and buy another in Boise?

It varies with price and the deal, but selling fees, seller closing costs, buyer closing costs and moving often add up to roughly 8% to 10% of the sale price before any repairs, concessions or double housing payments. Idaho has no state real estate transfer tax, which helps.

Will I owe capital gains tax when I sell my home?

Usually not. If you owned and lived in the home for at least 2 of the last 5 years, you can generally exclude up to $250,000 of gain, or $500,000 for married couples filing jointly. Larger gains, or homes you haven’t lived in long enough, may be taxed. Confirm with a tax professional.

Do I need to reapply for the homeowner’s exemption after I move?

Yes. The exemption doesn’t transfer to your new home. File a new application with the county assessor by December 31 of the year you move in. It reduces the taxable value of an owner-occupied home by 50%, up to $125,000.

Is my information saved or sent anywhere?

No. Everything is calculated in your browser. If you use “Copy a link to these numbers,” your inputs are included in that link so whoever opens it sees the same scenario.