Six Hidden Costs You should consider before buying a home
The “Hidden Costs” you need to understand before you purchase that house.
I chose to call them “hidden costs” because many of us never put them under consideration and don’t understand their implications on your finances and well-being in the long run.
It’s in my interest to state it that these hidden costs are technically related to the Life Cycle Costs of a construction product, for example maintenance and operational costs. It’s every one’s desire to acquire a quality product at the lowest price possible without jeopardizing its functionality.
Before you choose that tiled house, can you acquire their replacements from the local market or do you have to import them? Do you understand the cost implication? How much will you spend on the cleaning apparatus and agents for those tiles? Are they right tiles (slippery or non-slippery)? This will save you medical costs on accidents.
Before you choose that house, how are the bathrooms positioned? Are they located on opposite sides of the house? Do you know that this will increase replacement costs because you are going to use many and longer pipes (they are priced per meter).Have you gone ahead to establish the sizes of the WCs (flushing toilets)? Do they flush the right volumes of water? Are they to the specifications recommended? Do you know this will determine how many times you empty the pit? Do you know this will affect your water bills?
Before you purchase that exotic house, do you understand the finishes used? Do you know the cost of maintaining them? Do you really know that are priced differently?
Before you purchase that dream house, have you deeply looked at the lighting and powering of that house? Do the lamp holders call for expensive bulbs? How is the wiring and cable network, is it well insulated? Does each bedroom require 3 bulbs? In case you need to replace some fittings, can those cables easily be got on the local market? Do you understand the cost implications?
Before you transact, have you looked at the structural drawings for that house? Does it have the right foundation? Is it reinforced? Does it have the retaining wall recommended? Or you are waiting for it to collapse on your family? Does the structure conform to its structural drawings? Hope you understand the implication!!
Lastly, can that house support you in the old age when you are vulnerable, can you easily go to your bedroom, can you easily access the garage and kitchen at a vulnerable age or you have to break and reconstruct?
As an experienced and hands on construction consultant, I can guide you through these questions so you score a “distinction” or a good grade!
Thank you.
House Six Hidden Costs You Need to Know Before Buying Your Dream House
Buying a house is one of the most significant investments you’ll ever make, and it’s essential to be aware of the hidden costs that can impact your finances and well-being in the long run.
These costs, often overlooked, are tied to the life cycle costs of a construction product, including maintenance and operational expenses. Everyone desires to acquire a quality product at the lowest price possible without jeopardizing its functionality, but understanding these hidden costs can save you from unexpected expenses.
- Tile Replacement and Maintenance
Before you choose that beautifully tiled house, consider whether replacement tiles are readily available in the local market or if you’ll need to import them. Understanding the cost implications of this is crucial. Additionally, think about the cleaning apparatus and agents required for those tiles. Are the tiles slippery or non-slippery? Choosing the right type can save you from potential medical costs due to accidents.
- Bathroom Positioning and Plumbing
Take a close look at the bathroom layout. Are they located on opposite sides of the house? This can increase replacement costs because you’ll need more and longer pipes, which are priced per meter. Have you checked the sizes of the WCs (flushing toilets)? Do they flush the recommended volumes of water? These factors will affect how often you need to empty the pit and impact your water bills.
- Finishes and Maintenance
Before you purchase that exotic house, understand the finishes used and their maintenance costs. Different finishes come with different price tags and upkeep requirements. Being aware of these can help you plan your budget better.
- Lighting and Powering
Evaluate the lighting and powering systems in the house. Do the lamp holders require expensive bulbs? Is the wiring and cable network well insulated? Does each bedroom require multiple bulbs? If you need to replace fittings, can the necessary cables be easily found in the local market? Understanding these cost implications is essential.
- Structural Integrity
Have you reviewed the structural drawings for the house? Ensure it has the right foundation, proper reinforcement, and the recommended retaining walls. This is crucial to avoid the risk of the structure collapsing, which would be a significant safety hazard and financial burden.
- Accessibility in Old Age
Think about the long-term usability of the house. Can it support you in old age when you may be more vulnerable? Consider whether you can easily access your bedroom, garage, and kitchen as you age. If not, you might need to invest in modifications or reconstructions, adding to your costs.
As an experienced and hands-on construction consultant, I can guide you through these considerations to ensure you make an informed decision and avoid unexpected expenses. Let me help you score a “distinction” in your home purchase!
Reach out for expert advice and make your dream home a reality without breaking the bank.
Thank you.
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