Budgeting for Your First Year of Ownership

Friend, the mortgage is not the only number. Ownership includes maintenance.

Plan for These Annual Costs

HVAC servicing
Pest control
Lawn care
Minor plumbing fixes
Appliance repairs
HOA fees if applicable

A good rule of thumb is to save one percent of your home's value annually for maintenance. For a three hundred thousand dollar home, that is about three thousand dollars per year. That breaks down to two hundred fifty dollars per month.

Create a Maintenance Account

Separate from emergency savings, label it Home Care. Transfer funds monthly because preparation prevents panic.

This is your gentle reminder to plan to maintain what you build with intention and care.

Sis, Stop Renting.