06/03/2026
🏡 Just because you’re approved for $500,000 doesn’t mean you should spend $500,000.
Here’s what many buyers don’t think about:
Your lender approved the payment.
They didn’t budget for:
❌ The $8,000-$12,000 HVAC replacement
❌ The $1,500-$3,000 water heater
❌ The $10,000+ roof you’ll eventually need
❌ The surprise plumbing leak
❌ The appliance that quits working
❌ The higher electric bill from a larger home
❌ The lawn, landscaping, and upkeep
A good rule of thumb? Plan to set aside about 1% of your home’s value each year for maintenance and repairs.
On a $500,000 home, that’s roughly $5,000 a year.
My job isn’t to help you buy the most house possible.
My job is to help you buy a home you can comfortably afford while still having money to save, travel, invest, and actually enjoy your life.
Buy the house that fits your budget!
