Whether you're looking to buy your first home, or trading up to a larger one, there are many costs - on top of the purchase price - that you must figure into your calculation of affordability. These extra fees, such as taxes and other additional costs, could surprise you with an unwanted financial nightmare on closing day if you're not informed and prepared.

Some of these costs are one-time fixed payments, while others represent an ongoing monthly or yearly commitment. While not all of these costs will apply in every situation, it's better to know about them ahead of time so you can budget properly.

Remember, buying a home is a major milestone, and whether it's your first, second or tenth, there are many small but important details, not to mention stress and excitement, to deal with during the process. The last thing you need are unbudgeted financial obligations in the hours before you take possession of your new home.

To help homebuyers understand what these extra costs are, and in what situations they may apply, a free industry report has been prepared called "13 Extra Costs to Be Aware of Before Buying a Home."

Read through the following checklist to make sure you’re budgeting properly for your next move. Here are 5 of the 13 extra costs associated with purchasing a home.

1. Appraisal Fee: Your lending institution may request an appraisal of the property which would be your responsibility to pay for. Appraisals can vary in price from approximately $175 – $300. 

2. Property Taxes: Depending on your down-payment, your lending institution may decide to include your property taxes in your monthly mortgage payments. If your property taxes are not added to your monthly payments, your lending institution may require annual proof that your taxes have been paid. 

3. Survey Fee: When the home you purchase is a resale (vs a new home), your lending institution may ask for an updated property survey. The cost for this survey can vary between $700-$1,000. 

4. Property Insurance: Home insurance covers the replacement value of your home (structure and contents). Your lending institution will request proof that you are insured as it protects their investment on the loan. 

5. Service Charges: Any new utility that services your hook up, such as telephone or cable, may require an installation fee.

So, there are 5 of the 13 points in an effort to draw attention to this very important topic. If you'd like to see all 13 of these little known facts, I have put together a FREE Special Report titled “13 Extra Costs to Be Aware of Before Buying a Home " which explains these issues in greater detail.

You can grab a copy of that report for free by visiting: www.TheNicollPalliniGroup.com/seminar_13costs or give me a call at 707-380-8057. 

Thank you for reading this week's blog, and Go Serve Big!

Drew Nicoll

The Nicoll Pallini Group

Your Home Sold Guaranteed or I'll Buy It! So, if you or anyone you know is considering making a move, feel free to give me a call or pass on my number! 707-380-8057