How To Plan for Hidden Costs When Buying A Home

Buying a house includes more than only making a down payment. There are a plethora of costs associated with buying real estate that you may not expect while you're browsing through your dream listings.

To determine how much you will spend on a home, you would need to prepare not only for your mortgage payment but also for closing expenses, annual payments such as homeowners' association or co-op maintenance fees, property taxes, and homeowners' insurance and utilities. It's important to consider the following hidden cost when serching for a home.

 

Closing Cost

 

Although it may vary from state to state, closing costs typically runs around 2 to 5 percent of the purchase price. Typically closing costs include payment of your broker's fees, appraisal fees, inspection fees, escrow costs, legal fees, application processing fees, and more.

 

HOA Fees

 

If you buy a condo, an apartment, or a house in a gated neighborhood, odds are you'll have to join the homeowners' association. The recurring payments you pay to the HOA are for the repair and renovation of structures or open areas, such as parking garages, and landscaping and other amenities.

 

Property Taxes

 

It's important to remember property taxes when planning for a new house, as that will cost you quite a bit, depending on where you live. In Los Angeles County, for example, all landowners pay at least 1% of the value of their home, plus taxes imposed by particular county towns.

 

Homeowners Insurance

 

Homeowners insurance is essential for protecting your home from unforeseen events like natural disasters or having your home burglarized. The price of insurance depends on multiple factors, including the value of your home, claim history, and the deductible you choose. Insurance quotes can also vary depending on the geographic location of your home, as certain areas are more prone to fall victim to different kinds of natural disasters.