Costs of Owning Surprises Some Buyers

Julie Nesbitt
your Realtor Julie Nesbitt
A small survey of first-time home buyers found that more than half of the families were surprised at how expensive it was to own a home, even though 88 percent believed they had done a good estimate of the costs. The study for BBVA Compass, a lender based in Alabama, concluded that most lenders don’t warn buyers that there will be costs beyond principal, interest, taxes, and insurance. Among those costs are utilities. The U.S. Department of Energy reported that the typical family spends $1,900 a year – $158 per month – on things like heat, air conditioning and power. The National Association of Home Builders calculated that the typical buyer of a new home spends about $8,640 within the first 12 months for furnishings, appliances, and home repairs and fix-ups, while the typical buyer of a resale home spends $6,540. Many real estate owners also have to pay home owners association fees or condo fees.  Lawn care expenses will arise through the warmer months and in Virginia, leaf removal is also an expense to consider.  Finally all homes will require maintenance.
  • Julie Nesbitt

    Julie Nesbitt
    Julie Nesbitt knows the back trails and by-ways of Northern Virginia real estate.

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  • Enjoying Winkler Botanical Preserve

    We had a great time walking the trails. 

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  • Don’t take chances with real estate.

  • REDUCED: 7202 Churchill Rd, McLean

    Open House, Sunday, 1-4 BIG PRICE DROP! 7202 CHURCHILL ROADMcLean, VA 221016 Bedrooms5.5 Bathrooms6,752 SF $1,695,000

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  • Good Shepherd Housing and Family Services

    Fairfax County
    Established in 1974 with a mission to reduce homelessness, increase community support and promote self sufficiency, the Good Shepherd Housing and Family Services is operated by a multi-denominational board of directors and staff managing over 70 housing units. Good Shepherd Housing and Family Services is located in the Mount Zephyr Business Center at 8305 Richmond…

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For more information or to set up an appointment call Julie at (703)765-0300.

New contruction? Here’s a buyer’s tip …

If you're thinking of buying a new construction in your next home, you probably already know that every new home development will have its own sales staff. These people are often friendly, helpful and very knowledgeable about the newly built home. However, these folks work to sell this property only. The on-site staff of a builder knows the property as-well-as or better than anyone around and they are there to assist you but they work for the builder. When in the market for a newly built home, it's a good idea to employ your own advocate, an agent who does not work for the builder, to look out for your interests. We don't work for the builder ... we work for you. Our agents know the entire area, not just one property. We know the pitfalls and benefits of buying new, and best of all it won't cost you one dime more than if you use the onsite staff. You have a right to representation:exercise that right today!