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8 | Th e M Rep o RT Are High HOA Fees Keeping Renters From Becoming Buyers? T rulia's March Rent vs. Buy report found that purchasing a home with a traditional 30-year mortgage and 20 percent down payment is cheaper than renting, but additional fees from the homeowner association can make renting seem more attractive for buyers, es- pecially for New York and Honolulu residents whose fees are considerably higher at $575 and $438 per month, respectively. Nevertheless, purchasing a home is still 35 percent cheaper than renting across all states. That is right, all. The state of Florida appears to be one of the most buyer-friendly markets in the U.S., compared to renting a home, and Louisiana and South Carolina round out the top three. Meanwhile, California's home prices show little difference from rental prices, making the choice a bit tougher. MDwell VS.