New homebuyers are typically concerned with the price of the house and the mortgage’s interest rates. For instance, a homebuyer in Yass Valley will be trying to raise A$665,000 for a new home.
While these costs should be the primary consideration, there are other expenses that you must plan for when you are buying a new home. Some of these additional expenses will come into play before you purchase the house, while other expenses will pop up after you have made the purchase. These additional expenses include the following.
Home Inspection
Scheduling a home inspection is necessary because you will get to verify the working condition of every item in the house. For instance, the home inspector will identify any parts in the house that need to be repaired. A home inspection provides accurate information that you can use to make an informed decision. However, you will have to pay for the home inspection, even if you don’t buy that particular house in the end.
Property Appraisal Expenses
Most financial institutions won’t approve a loan unless you conduct an appraisal. The appraisal is needed to determine the market value of the house. As a result, you have to pay for the appraisal, which will be a separate cost from the price of the house.
Earnest Money
Some home sellers may demand some upfront money from potential buyers. This upfront payment is called earnest money, and it shows that the buyer is seriously interested in buying the house. Earnest money works as a security deposit, meaning that you will get it once you buy the house. However, you will lose the money if you change your mind and fail to buy the house.
Homeowners Insurance
You may have to take homeowners insurance to protect against the potential destruction of your home. Typically, homeowners insurance is paid for by the mortgage loan. However, this is an additional expense that will increase your overall mortgage repayment amount. And if it’s not included in your mortgage, you will have to budget for monthly premium payments.
Moving Expenses
When you are ready to move into the new home, you will need to hire a moving van. The cost of hiring a moving van, packing equipment, and boxes can rise greatly. In addition, you have to pay for labour. If you are moving a long distance and have a lot of household goods, you should budget for substantial moving expenses.
Utilities, Repairs, and Home Maintenance
Repairs and maintenance are unavoidable regardless of where you reside. Something in your new home is likely to wear, tear, or break down. Consequently, it’s necessary that you have some funds to repair or replace systems, structures, and appliances in your new home.
Similarly, you will have to budget for electricity, gas, sewer, and water. These utilities may mount if you are moving into a large house.
Bottom Line
Buying a new house is probably one of the biggest investments you’ll ever make. That’s why you should know the additional expenses beforehand. If you’re planning to buy a new house in regional NSW, we may be able to offer additional advice if you contact us.
