29 Most Common Hidden Costs of Homeownership
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LOS ANGELES - Californer -- We'll give you a few, but to see what they all are, visit the link at end.

1. Property Taxes
Property taxes are based on the assessed value of your home and vary greatly by location. These taxes often increase over time as property values rise.

To estimate your property taxes each year, find out what the property tax rate is in your county and follow this formula (continued in link at the end of article)...

2. Homeowners Insurance
Homeowner insurance is usually required when someone takes out a mortgage. The home technically belongs to that lender, and they will want to know that their asset is protected against damages.

If you do not buy a homeowners insurance policy, a lender may add a force-placed home insurance policy on your home and roll it into escrow. Their choice for homeowners insurance coverage is usually more expensive than what you would buy after comparing rates on your own.

Homeowners insurance also varies greatly by  (continued in full article, see link at end)...

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4. Maintenance and Repairs
Routine maintenance and repairs may be needed, even if the home passes inspection. It may be a pipe that starts leaking or a toilet that gets clogged easily.

If you have a fireplace, a chimney specialist should check it each year to make sure it is not dangerous to operate. Filters need to be changed for the HVAC, the oven range and more.

Repairs on heating, ventilation, air conditioning, plumbing or electrical systems can be incredibly expensive.

If you're used to apartment living, consider everything you will now be responsible to pay for, and go over average ongoing maintenance costs.

Building an emergency fund is a wise strategy to have the money for maintenance and repairs on hand.

5. Utilities
Utility costs for electricity, water, and garbage collection vary widely according to usage and location.

Utility bills tend to be higher in larger homes and homes with high ceilings.

Unexpected costs like connection fees may apply to cable bills.

Visit https://smartfinancial.com/hidden-costs-homeownership for the full list!