Ongoing Costs

Financial Life Planning for Busy Parents

Ongoing Pain in the Costs

You’ve done the math, compared the options, and finally settled into your dream home. Or perhaps you’ve acquired that sleek, new car you always wanted. You know the one-time fee, but do you truly understand the ongoing cost? It's easy to overlook the continuous financial and time investments required for the maintenance of your possessions. Join Matt Robison and I this week as we delve into planning for the ‘not-so-one-off’ costs of upkeep. The dream of owning a home is often painted with idyllic scenes of family gatherings and cozy evenings by the fireplace. Yet, behind this picturesque facade lies the reality of constant maintenance. On average, home maintenance and upkeep can account for 1-2% of your home's value annually. Think about it - for every $100,000 your home is worth, you might spend $1,000 to $2,000 every year just to maintain its current condition. But it’s not just about money. It’s about time, too. The larger your home – in terms of lot size, square footage, and price – the more time it takes to manage it. Ignore it, and you might soon see your investment plummet in value. Consider the various components of your home that demand constant attention. From heating and cooling systems (furnace, dehumidifier, ducts, vents, AC unit, portable heaters) to electrical appliances (lights, outlets, generator, fridge, stove, microwave, dishwasher), plumbing (well pump, water filtration, sinks, faucets, toilets, copper plumbing), and the structural elements (roof, radon systems, vents, shingles, gutters), the list seems endless. if these items generally last around 25 years, you’re looking at potentially one significant replacement every year. It's a cycle that doesn’t end, and you need to plan accordingly.

How to manage this pain in the wallet

Understanding that every possession you acquire comes with an ongoing cost is the first step. Don’t let these expenses catch you off guard. Here are a few practical steps you can take:

1. Budget Wisely: When you make a large purchase, factor in the ongoing costs of maintenance and repairs. Create a budget that accounts for these expenses.
2. Educate Yourself: Learn the basics of home and car maintenance. Small repairs that you can handle yourself can save you both time and money.
3. Regular Inspections: Conduct regular inspections of your home and car to catch potential issues early. Preventive maintenance often costs less than emergency repairs.
4. Emergency Fund: Have an emergency fund set aside specifically for unexpected repairs and maintenance.
5. Get Professional Help: Don’t hesitate to call in professionals when needed. While it might seem costly upfront, it can save you from more extensive and expensive repairs down the line.

It is essential to recognize the ongoing responsibilities and costs that come with one-time purchases. By understanding and preparing for the continuous costs – both in terms of money and time – you can enjoy your investments without the constant stress of unexpected expenses. Expect maintenance, be proactive, budget wisely, prepare, and remember - it’s not just the price tag; it’s the ongoing commitment that truly defines ownership.