When you are a homeowner, you have expenses other than just the mortgage and insurance. A necessary part of home ownership is keeping your home well-maintained. These added expenses often surprise many first-time home buyers. Here we explain some of the most common home maintenance costs.
Lawn Care
If you have a lawn, you will need to maintain it. Whether you hire a lawn service or mow the lawn yourself, this is an expense you’ll need to budget for. Lawn services may seem more expensive, but if you’re maintaining the lawn yourself, you’re also responsible for the gas, the equipment, and any repair costs if something breaks. Not to mention, your time is worth something, too.
HVAC Home Maintenance Costs
Your HVAC system is important for keeping your home cool in the summer and warm in the winter. Like any home system, it needs periodic maintenance. This includes changing the air filter as often as the manufacturer recommends and hiring an HVAC professional to service it twice a year. Maintenance is essential for keeping your HVAC system running efficiently.
Home Maintenance Costs Include Fireplace Upkeep
To reduce the chance of house fires, have your fireplace inspected annually. If you have a wood burning fireplace, get your chimney swept. For those with a gas fireplace, you will need a gas inspection and a chimney cleaning. Proper fireplace maintenance will keep your fireplace working properly and your family safe.
Pest Control at Home
No matter how clean you keep your home, you may find yourself with a pest problem. Pest control is a necessary part of home ownership. In order to keep your home pest free, it’s important to prevent them. Routine pest control services include wood-destroying organism inspections, spraying around the perimeter of your home, and sealing holes that pests might enter through.
Gutter Cleaning and Maintenance
Your gutters protect your home by keeping rainwater away from your siding and from pooling around your foundation. When a gutter gets clogged, it can cause damage to your home. Have your gutters cleaned at least twice a year. You can also clean the gutters yourself, but occasionally have them inspected and cleaned by a professional. They will check for damage and can make any needed repairs.
There are just a few of the expenses that are a part of homeownership. By keeping your home properly maintained, you’ll avoid more costly repairs in the future. Don’t put off maintenance because you are trying to save money. Create a budget to help you plan for these common home maintenance costs.
R. Sorensen Construction & Inspections offers home inspection services in Eastern Oregon. Contact us to schedule an appointment.