What Renters Need to Know Before Buying a Home

When you rent, life is simpler: you pay your rent check every month, and most of the big stuff is someone else’s problem. If the A/C breaks, you call the landlord. If the grass gets too long, someone comes to mow it. Garbage, water, or pest control? Often included in the rent.

But when you buy a home, it all changes. Suddenly, you’re the landlord. That means more freedom, more pride, and more equity, but also more bills. The good news? If you know what’s coming, you can plan for it.

Here’s what most first-time buyers don’t expect when they move from renter to homeowner:

Maintenance & Repairs

1. Repairs aren’t free anymore. Broken dishwasher, leaky toilet, or a roof leak? That’s on you.
2. Ongoing maintenance. HVAC service twice a year, gutter cleaning, pressure washing, and little fixes that keep the home running smoothly.
3. A good rule of thumb: budget 1–2% of the home’s value every year for maintenance and repairs.

Yard Care

1. Grass doesn’t cut itself. If you have a lawn, you’ll either need to buy equipment and do it yourself or hire a service.
2. Costs range from $40–$100+ a month depending on yard size.
3. Got trees? Add trimming and storm cleanup to the list.

Pool Care (If You Have One)

1. Pools are fun — but they aren’t free. Chemicals, cleaning, and maintenance can run $80–$150+ a month.
2. Pumps, filters, and liners eventually need repairs or replacement.

Garbage & Recycling

1. Many rentals include trash pickup. As a homeowner, you may have to arrange and pay for it separately.
2. In some cities, it’s included in property taxes; in others, it’s an extra $30–$100 a month.

Utilities

1. Renters often have utilities bundled into rent. As an owner, you’ll likely pay all of these separately:
2. Electric
3. Water & Sewer
4. Gas/Propane – Heating Oil (if applicable)
5. Internet & Cable
6. Recycling/Trash (if not in taxes)
7. Pro Tip: Homes are often bigger than apartments, which means higher utility bills.

Pest Control

1. Landlords usually handle this. As an owner, you’ll need regular service (ants, termites, roaches, etc.).
2. Costs: $30–$60 a month or more for termite coverage.

Property Taxes

1. A big new expense renters don’t pay directly.
2. Varies by location, but can be several thousand a year.
3. Usually added to your monthly mortgage escrow payment.

Homeowner’s Insurance

1. Protects your home from fire, theft, storms, and more.
2. Unlike renter’s insurance, it also covers the building itself (not just your belongings).
3. Average cost: $200–$300+ a month.

HOA or Condo Fees (If Applicable)

1. Some communities charge monthly fees for amenities, landscaping, or shared repairs.
2. Fees can range from $50 to several hundred a month.

Big Ticket Items (Long-Term Costs)

1. Roof replacement every 15–25 years.
2. Water heater every 8–12 years.
3. HVAC systems every 10–15 years.
4. These aren’t yearly costs, but when they hit, they’re major.