MAINTENANCE   I About Ramsey-Shilling I  Inspection I Buyer’s Checklist I Relocating I Affordability

Consider the Maintenance Costs Whether buying a new or older home, it is good to know what your ongoing maintenance costs will be. The maintenance costs can range from 1.5% to 4% of the home's original price. This does not necessarily apply to homes over a million dollars, however, it is a reasonable average for many home buyers, especially on starter homes. If money is tight... consider a home warranty to protect you from unplanned costly repairs.  Home warranties will cost between $300-$400 and cover many major home systems and built-in appliances for one full year after close. A home warranty will either pay to repair or replace a covered item and the homeowner pays a minimal deductible rather than the full cost of repairs. Our agents can answer any questions you may have about obtaining a home warranty. Finding a Home that is Right for You Questions to consider: Is there enough room now and if your family expands in the future? Do you and your spouse like the floor plan? Is there adequate storage space? Will the appliances need to be updated? Is the yard too big or too small? Are there enough bathrooms for everyone? Tell your agent what you like and don’t like (even minor details). This helps to find that perfect home for you and can make the process go more quickly and more smoothly. SEARCH Ramsey-Shilling FEATURED PROPERTIES   Selecting a Neighborhood When you visit: Check out the neighborhood in person. Talk to people who live there. Drive through the entire area at different times of the day during the week and on weekends. Look carefully at other homes and how well they are maintained. Look for access to highways and shopping. Listen for noise created by commerce, roads, highways, public areas, schools. Check with local officials to find information about the area. Notice distance to neighborhood                                                shopping, theaters, schools etc.

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