What Nobody Tells You When You Buy a New Home

Buying a new home is one of the most exciting milestones in life. The fresh paint, sparkling appliances, and the feeling of walking into something brand new—it’s all a dream come true. But behind that shiny, move-in-ready exterior lies something most people don’t talk about: the ongoing maintenance requirements, time commitments, and costs that come with homeownership.

Let’s pull back the curtain on what nobody tells you when you buy a new home.

Did you know? Furnaces in brand new homes can fail in winter months without proactive maintenance.

1. New Doesn’t Mean Maintenance-Free

You might assume that a new home won’t require maintenance for years—but that’s not entirely true.

Even brand-new homes need regular upkeep to keep everything running smoothly. Think about it:

• HVAC systems: Filters need replacing every 1–3 months, and seasonal tune-ups are crucial for efficiency.

• Plumbing fixtures: New doesn’t mean invincible—leaks can happen, and drains need occasional clearing.

• Exterior care: Gutters still need cleaning, and outdoor faucets need winterizing to avoid freezing.

Skipping maintenance, even in a new home, can lead to costly repairs down the line.

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2. Time Commitment: Homeownership is a Second Job

Owning a home means more than paying the mortgage—it’s an ongoing responsibility. On average, homeowners spend 10–15 hours per month on maintenance and upkeep.

Here’s where your time might go:

• Inspecting for leaks or damage.

• Cleaning gutters, range hood filters, and dryer vents.

• Landscaping, snow removal, and seasonal prep.

• Researching and coordinating contractors for tasks you can’t DIY.

Even with a brand-new home, keeping it in top shape requires consistent attention.

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3. The Hidden Costs of Homeownership

Beyond the down payment and monthly mortgage, maintaining a home has real financial costs.

• Routine Maintenance: Plan for about 1–2% of your home’s value annually for routine care. For a $500,000 home, that’s $5,000–$10,000 per year.

• Unexpected Repairs: Even with a new home warranty, not all repairs are covered. For example, clogged pipes due to normal use or damage from weather may be your responsibility.

• Long-Term Expenses: Major systems like HVAC units and water heaters will eventually need repairs or replacement. Setting aside an emergency fund for these costs is critical.

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4. Learning Curve: You’re the Manager Now

When you’re a renter, maintenance issues are just a call to the landlord away. But as a homeowner, you’re the one making the decisions.

• Who do you call for a leaky faucet or electrical issue?

• How do you know if a contractor’s quote is reasonable?

• What’s the best way to winterize your home in a cold climate like Calgary?

Owning a home means being proactive and resourceful—or finding trusted experts to lean on.

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5. Proactive Care Pays Off

The good news? Staying on top of maintenance isn’t just about preventing issues—it’s about preserving your home’s value and enjoying peace of mind.

When you take a proactive approach to maintenance:

• You’ll avoid costly emergencies, like burst pipes or broken furnaces.

• Your home will retain its value, making it easier to sell when the time comes.

• You’ll save money in the long run by extending the life of your home’s systems and appliances.

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How Squad Life Can Help

Feeling overwhelmed? You’re not alone. That’s why we created Squad Life—to make homeownership simpler and stress-free.

Here’s how we take the guesswork out of home maintenance:

• Proactive Care: Regular check-ups and seasonal tune-ups for your home’s critical systems.

• Time Savings: We handle the inspections, cleaning, and small repairs so you can focus on what matters most.

• Cost Transparency: Clear pricing and no long-term commitments.

• Peace of Mind: Detailed maintenance records to help you stay organized and confident.

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The Reality of Homeownership

Owning a home is a dream come true—but it comes with responsibilities that often catch new homeowners off guard. The time, costs, and expertise needed to maintain a property can be overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be.

With the right tools and support, you can focus on enjoying your new home—while we take care of the rest. Ready to make homeownership easier? Let’s talk about how Squad Life can help.