What is the fee of registering for the TOEFL iBT Paper Edition?

Applicants who choose to take the TOEFL iBT Paper Edition must pay an amount of INR 16,900 for registering, which is the same for TOEFL iBT.

How many times is the TOEFL iBT Home Edition conducted in a month?

The TOEFL iBT Paper Edition is offered once or twice every month.

As the TOEFL iBT exam is conducted in two sessions, do I have to book two dates or one?

You need to schedule two appointments when you register: one at your neighbourhood testing facility and the other at your house.

In some places, why is the duration of the first session of TOEFL iBT Paper Edition written as three and half hours? What is the actual duration?

The test duration at a centre is three hours. An additional thirty minutes is allocated for test administration tasks, such as admitting examinees, allowing them to input identifying information, and managing test materials.

Are there any special requirements for the Speaking section of the TOEFL iBT Paper Edition?

As the Speaking section is conducted from home, please ensure that you have the required setup for both the equipment and environment before registering. You will get the details from the official website.

Renting vs Buying Property - TOEFL Independent Speaking Practice Test

Home Practice Tests TOEFL Speaking Practice Tests

Renting vs Buying Property - TOEFL Speaking Practice Test (Independent)

Reena Saini

4 min read

Updated On January 20, 2025

"Hone your speaking skills and prepare for the TOEFL Independent Speaking section with the practice test on 'Renting vs Buying Property' along with sample answers to score higher."

Key Highlights

Question:
Points to Remember
Answer Key with Explanation for TOEFL Independent Speaking Test - Renting vs Buying Property

In the TOEFL Speaking Independent Section of the TOEFL iBT® exam, giving the response in a well-arranged approach is required in a limited time frame. Indeed, there are only 15 seconds to prepare your points so brainstorm them very quickly in order to have all the notes for reference while speaking. Usually, speaking time is for 45 seconds where you must produce an effective and fluent speech that wil follow your main ideas and points. Thus, time management ensures that you do not rush while speaking. Along with that, speaking skills such as clarity and coherence are absolutely necessary for making your ideas easily understandable.

In the TOEFL Speaking Independent Practice Test on 'Renting vs Buying Property', you will become aware of the exam format which will help you to ideate within the given time frame. Not only that buy you would also get an opportunity to go through the sample answers which will help you understand the aspects which must be considered while providing your responses. With practice, you will be able to score higher on the TOEFL exam while honing those speaking skills.

Shall we start now?

Instructions:

You'll receive a familiar topic to speak about with no accompanying reading or listening passages.
After hearing the question, you will have 15 seconds to prepare your response and 45 seconds to deliver it.
Remember, 15 seconds might seem short, but it's ample time for preparation.
For this Question, you'll encounter two situations or opinions and must express your preference, providing reasons for your choice.

Now, play this Audio to hear the Question.

Question:

When considering a place to live, some people prefer renting a property, while others choose to buy one. Which option do you prefer and why? Explain your reasons with specific examples from your own experience.

Preparation Time: 15 Seconds

Response Time: 45 Seconds

Points to Remember

When addressing the question about renting vs buying property, consider these key points to craft a well-rounded response. You must clearly state your position and provide specific reasons to justify your opinion. Include relevant examples and maintain a clear, logical organization. Your response should be concise yet detailed enough to demonstrate your speaking abilities within the time limit.

Answer Key with Explanation for TOEFL Independent Speaking Test - Renting vs Buying Property

Here, we've included two sample answers, one at a mid-level and one at a high-level proficiency. By comparing the differences in language use, you will gain valuable insights into the key elements that contribute to achieving a higher TOEFL score.

Listen to the audio recording to hear a mid-level answer to the provided question.

Mid-Level Answer Audio Transcript:

I prefer, um, renting a property because it is more flexible. Renting, uh, allows me to move easily if I need to change jobs or, you know, want to live in a different area. For example, when I was renting, I could move to a new city without worrying about selling a house. Renting is also, um, cheaper in the short term. I don't have to pay for, uh, maintenance or property taxes. Renting is, uh, more flexible and cheaper. But, um, buying a house can be good too, but I prefer renting. Renting is, uh, more flexible and cheaper.

Rater’s Comment:

The response earns a score of 1 due to its limited content and coherence. Language errors include frequent filler words such as "um" and "uh," which disrupt fluency, e.g., "I prefer, um, renting a property." There are also grammar issues, such as the repetitive phrase "Renting is, uh, more flexible and cheaper," which lacks subject-verb agreement and clarity. Delivery is hindered by unnatural pauses and choppy pacing, making the speech difficult to follow. Content development is weak, with repeated ideas like "Renting is, uh, more flexible and cheaper," and a lack of detailed support or examples. The response is largely formulaic and lacks depth. To improve, the speaker should focus on reducing filler words, enhancing grammatical accuracy, and providing more detailed and varied content.

Listen to the audio recording to hear a high-level answer to the provided question.

High-Level Answer Audio Transcript:

I prefer buying a property over renting because it provides long-term financial benefits and a sense of stability. For instance, when I purchased my flat, I was able to build equity over time, which is a significant financial advantage. Unlike renting, where monthly payments do not contribute to ownership, buying allows me to invest in my future. Additionally, owning a property gives me the freedom to renovate and personalise my space without restrictions. This sense of ownership and the ability to create a home that truly reflects my personality is invaluable. Furthermore, in the long run, buying can be more cost-effective, as mortgage payments can be comparable to rent, but with the added benefit of eventual ownership. These factors make buying a more appealing option for me.

Rater’s Comment:

This response earns a score of 4 due to its effective language use, clear delivery, and well-developed content. The speaker employs advanced grammar structures, such as "when I purchased my flat, I was able to build equity over time," demonstrating control over complex sentences. Sophisticated vocabulary choices like "equity," "renovate," and "personalise" enhance the response's precision. The delivery is characterised by a natural flow and effective pacing, with clear articulation and smooth transitions, as seen in the seamless shift from financial benefits to personalisation. The content is well-organised, with strong supporting examples, such as the comparison between renting and buying, illustrating the speaker's preference. The coherent progression of ideas and the logical argumentation, particularly the emphasis on long-term financial benefits and personal freedom, showcase the speaker's mastery. These strengths should be maintained for continued success.

How did you do on this practice test? Whether you're satisfied or see room for improvement, we've got you covered! Our extensive collection of practice materials is designed to help you strengthen your speaking abilities and excel in the TOEFL exam.

Remember, consistent practice is the key to success!

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