Moving into a new home is exciting, especially if you’re a first-time homeowner. You may be planning your living room decor or where to create a garden space. It’s also important to understand the practical side of owning a home. Here are some home maintenance costs that surprise many new homeowners.
Higher Utility Bills
A house is typically bigger than an apartment. This extra space requires more energy from the heating and cooling system to maintain a comfortable temperature. Expect to pay more for utilities in your new house if it is larger than your previous living space.
It is possible that you didn’t have to pay for trash pickup service as a renter. Some apartment complexes include internet and/or water service in the price of the rent. As a homeowner, you are now responsible for all of your utility bills.
HVAC Maintenance and Upkeep
Keep your HVAC system running smoothly and efficiently by hiring a professional to maintain the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system every year. If you are moving into a newly built home, maintenance on the HVAC system will likely be required or else the warranty will be void.
Your maintenance service should be completed twice a year but you should replace your HVAC filters more frequently. These need to be changed monthly, following the manufacturer’s recommendations. If the filters get too dirty, you run the risk of overworking the HVAC system.
Home Maintenance Costs Include Pest Control
Some property managers treat the property for pests annually. As a homeowner, it’s your job to call an exterminator if needed. Before you purchase the home, ask your inspector to look for signs of wood-destroying insects.
After you move in, hire a pest control company to perform regular maintenance so you won’t have to worry about an infestation.
Landscaping and Exterior Home Maintenance Costs
Landscaping costs often shock former renters. Keeping the lawn mowed and trees and shrubbery trimmed takes a lot of work. Maintain the exterior of the property to keep up curb appeal. It’s also essential from a home value standpoint if it ever becomes time to sell.
Other than landscaping maintenance, you may also want to plant new trees and shrubs. The lawn should be fertilized to get it ready for summer. If you don’t already own a lawnmower, invest in one. If you don’t have the time to take care of your yard, hire a professional landscaping company. Whether you choose to do it yourself or hire someone, it costs money to keep up the exterior of your property.
Other landscaping and house exterior costs include:
- Install a new front door or repaint the current one.
- Annually pressure-wash and repair the home’s siding.
- Apply driveway sealant.
- Stain and seal the wooden fence and deck.
- Repair roof damage.
- Paint the exterior of the home.
Install New Locks
When you take ownership of a new home, change the locks. You never know who has the keys to the house. The former owners may have given keys to their dog walker, babysitter, or even neighbors. Include money for installing new locks in your budget.
Premier Home & Building Inspections provides home inspection services to eastern Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island. Contact us to schedule an appointment.