Home Maintenance Costs

We talk a lot about the cost to acquire a home, but the costs to maintain a home are sizable and worthy of discussion. It's important to consider these expenses when creating a budget for home ownership:

• Termite bond $1500 initially and $250/year

• HVAC service $150 twice a year

• Pest control $300/year

• Water heater flush $150/year

• Dryer duct cleaning $150/year

• Exterior power washing $500+

• Air duct cleaning $1500+

• Deep house cleaning $400

• Carpet cleaning $300+

These will all serve to keep your home in good working order and prevent unexpected, costly repairs. Remember that maintaining your home is the best avenue to capturing and protecting equity. Today's buyers (and home inspectors) are very savvy and are wary of deferred maintenance. If you haven't maintained the home properly during your ownership, you will leave money on the table when it's time to sell!