Think a Home Is Expensive? Wait Until You See the Maintenance Costs

Mortgage Research Network Podcast · Mar 26, 2026 · 6m

Think buying a home is expensive? The real shock comes after you move in—homeowners can spend more than $400,000 on maintenance and repairs over time. Tim Lucas and Craig Berry break down where that money goes, why most people underestimate these costs, and how to prepare financially.In this episode you’ll learn:The true lifetime cost of maintenance: Homeowners spend an average of $339,000 on upkeep—and up to $418,000 including emergencies.Why expectations fall short: Many homeowners budget $1,000–$5,000 per year, but actual costs average more than $7,000 annually.The biggest expenses to plan…