Understanding Maintenance Costs With Different Kinds of Homes

Maintenance fees and costs vary across different types of houses. These costs must be known by first time homebuyers and factored into their buying decision.

Specific types of MN homes for sale have unique maintenance costs attached to them. These could range from government and local taxes to community association fees. If you are a first time homebuyer, take the time to know the maintenance costs for each house you are interested in; as this can spare you from future headaches. Here is a basic breakdown of maintenance costs associated with different types of homes:

Condos: Condos are a very popular choice for first time buyers. Residents of a condominium have shared access to living spaces and facilities. As such, you'll need to pay fees depending on your stake in the building.

Ilyce Glink, author of the book '100 Questions Every First-Time Home Buyer Should Ask' explains that condo fees are calculated by taking the total building's expense and dividing that by the percentage of ownership. The total building expenses include the building's emergency reserve account, and the final cost may fluctuate over the course of the year.

Row houses: The fees associated with town homes are the same as any independently owned homes incur. But some MN townhomes are part of a neighborhood or homeowner's association. These monthly association fees usually comprise of repair and maintenance costs of common exteriors and landscapes.

Mobile houses: Normally, mobile home owners are solely responsible for their own maintenance expenses. These fees are comprised of, but not limited to, water, sewage and garbage, electricity, cable and other services. Mobile houses can also be located in mobile parks. Some parks charge homeowners for a fee to lease the land they locate in.

Single-family detached homes: Detached home maintenance costs are typically the responsibility of the homeowner. Even if the home is within a community setting, the homeowner will be responsible for maintenance and upkeep, landscaping, lawn services and other fees associated with maintaining a home. You will also be responsible for all real estate taxes and government fees; check with the realtor and a financial advisor to get an estimate on what this may be.

If you are considering to get a loan, remember that some lenders might package some of these maintenance fees into your loan. Give all the information you got from your realtor to your loan officer and inform him/her of your budget to acquire a loan that will fit your needs.

Any house, whether it is a single-family home, a condo or a mobile home, has several implicit ownership and maintenance costs. When you're searching for the right fit, consider making a checklist or worksheet that lists all of the different home options and related fees. Having a side-by-side comparison of the total costs involved can help you make the most informed decision for your new home purchase.