Buyers Guide: Homeowners Responsibility

The Responsibilities of Owning A Home

If you are a first time home buyer, the excitement of owning your own home or moving out is exciting. You gain independence and the ability to make your own decisions. That decision itself, to become a homeowner, carries some big responsibilities. Things you need to be prepared to deal with and tackle as they come along. It is not a one time thing, once you become a homeowner it is a constant and ongoing process.

The work is never done as a homeowner. There is always more to do. Always something that comes up. Things that if you do not stay on top of become very expensive problems. Added expenses on top of the expenses you already have and are having to pay for maybe the first time. It can be daunting and a lot to deal with.

First you have the non-financial responsibilities. This includes things like pulling weeds, painting, cleaning gutters, mowing the lawn, inspecting the basement, washing the windows, shoveling the driveway, and all sorts of other small tasks here and there around the house. Regardless of what it is, no matter how big or small, there is always going to be something that requires your attention and time. Be sure you want to and have the ability to take care of these. If not, maybe a townhome, condo, or apartment is for you. These options often have monthly fees you have to pay, however these cover those tasks and free you up from having to do them yourself.

The other responsibilities are the financial ones. These are the ones that absolutely must be planned out prior to becoming a homeowner. Every single month you'll start off with your mortgage payment and then tack everything else on top, and it adds up quickly. You’ll have utilities (i.e. water, electricity), groceries, insurance, credit cards, phone bills, cable, maybe you have a car payment, and then just general additional spending. Don't forget those property taxes. It will add up much quicker than you think. You need to plan and budget accordingly prior to considering buying a home. Make sure you know what you can spend and make sure any home you buy can fit within your monthly budget.

Becoming a homeowner is an exciting part of life. You are gaining independence but with that comes the responsibilities discussed above. It is important that you are ready and capable to handle both.

If you are buying a home for the first time, you need guidance and assistance navigating the process and understanding what homes may and may not work for you. Here at Jump Realty we can help with that. Our agents pride themselves on ensuring that their clients are in the right spot. We’ll work within your budget to make sure we help you find and buy not only the right home, but the right type of home. As much as you need to be ready for your responsibilities as a new home owner, we understand our responsibilities to do right by you. Contact us today to find an agent who can help you.

home care responsibility