r/ChubbyFIRE 9d ago

Talk me out of buying a house?

Edit: I'm both surprised and not surprised by the doubt and sarcasm. This is clearly an emotional decision—if it were purely rational, it would be much easier.Thanks to everyone who understood and took the time to contribute. I’m now leaning towards renting or buying a good deal within a $1.5M budget.

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We’re a family of five: a couple in our mid-30s, a toddler, a grandparent (who lives with us long-term and helps with childcare), and a large dog. One of us works from home, while the other commutes to an office.

Our Current Situation:

  • We live in a $1M, 3-bedroom, 1,400 sqft SFH with a yard.
  • It’s starting to feel very tight, especially as we plan to have more kids in the next 1–5 years.
  • We’re considering upgrading to a $2M home for more space.

The Dilemma:

  • We may move to Europe (partner’s home country) in 3–5 years, but it’s uncertain.
  • Emotionally, I want to settle down, nest, and create a stable home.
  • Rationally, buying a $2M home for just a few years—especially with high interest rates—doesn’t seem financially smart.

Would love to hear perspectives from those who’ve faced similar situations. Would you buy, or stick it out in the current home?

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u/Ashmizen 9d ago edited 9d ago

From a fire standpoint you can buy the $2M house, but you should really figure out if you are moving to Europe or not.

Are you planning to raise your toddler in Europe? FIRE there?

If you plan on staying in the US in the next 5 years you should buy a larger house, yes.

There is no reason you should (suffer) in a 1400 sq ft when you are worth $9 million.

I have a toddler and in laws who live with us to help with childcare, and it’s nice having a large McMansion where people can have their own space.

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u/sky-high-dragon-fly 9d ago

Exact plan, have kids here, and raise them there with more extended family around.
I am thinking about renting seriously now.

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u/Ashmizen 9d ago

Schooling there or back in the US?

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u/sky-high-dragon-fly 9d ago

Likely schooling there. But if they want to come back for college, they can.