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A man calculating hidden costs of owning a home

The Hidden Costs of Owning a Home

The low mortgage rates have sparked an interest in homeownership, especially among young people. A home is indeed a valuable asset that secures a more stable financial future. However, novice home buyers may be surprised to see what’s in store for them in the form of hidden costs.

The actual cost of owning a property extends way beyond mortgage payments. Being prepared means winning half the battle, which is why this blog will discuss the major hidden costs of owning a home.

Property Taxes

This goes without saying, but as a homeowner, you’ll need to pay property taxes. You should find out what the taxes are in advance, divide them by twelve, and add the amount to your monthly expenses.

And remember, these taxes are just going to keep increasing. The amount of property tax may vary based on your property’s location. They can range from $200 to $10,000 each year.

Homeowners Association

When you buy a residence within the homeowners association, you need to pay a monthly or quarterly fee. This covers the maintenance cost for the entire neighborhood like garbage disposal, waste management, and snow plowing.

The fees may rise each year or if improvements are made, such as adding surveillance cameras or repaving the parking lot.

Insurance

This expense is no surprise. All banks and mortgage companies need it before you qualify for a loan, and it is added to your monthly mortgage payment.

Homeowners insurance covers any losses in case of property damage and also provides liability coverage.

Maintenance and Upgrades

When you’re a homeowner, you’ll encounter various unexpected and expected maintenance costs. The older your home is, the more the chances of maintenance and upgrades. Some typical maintenance costs include:

The Roof

A leaky roof can cause cosmetic damage to the interior of your home and also cause structural problems. Harsh weather conditions and other issues may result in the roof becoming loose or damaged.

HVAC System

You’ll need to replace the furnace and air conditioner filter quite often to ensure smooth operation. Also, it’s best to have your HVAC system inspected at least once a year.

Electrical Appliances

Faulty wiring and damaged appliances are some of the most common costs. You need to ensure that your electrical systems are safe to prevent any mishaps.

Plumbing

Clogged drains are your lifelong companions if you’re a homeowner. Some older homes preset more severe plumbing issues from time to time, like reduced water pressure or rusted pipes.

A man calculating hidden costs of owning a home

Lawn Care

Whether you do it yourself or hire a professional, you’ll need to set aside a budget for landscape maintenance. Outdoor maintenance is also a requirement in most places for safety and appearance concerns.

Hard Money Lenders in New York

Insula Capital Group is your best option when it comes to hard money loans and reliable private lenders. Whether you need mortgage lenders or real estate financers, we have a team of experts that have got you covered.

Get in touch with us right now.