Hidden Cost to Homeownership

You saved all your money for a down payment on a house and calculated the costs of the mortgage but wait just a minute…owning a home also comes with several hidden costs. Those costs can add up. So before you buy your home, here are additional home-related expenses you’ll want to include in your budgeting:

Real Estate Taxes – Often your real estate taxes are included in your monthly mortgage payment but in some instances you may pay them directly. The amount of taxes you pay varies depending on the value of your home’s and the tax rate in your community.

Private Mortgage Insurance – Your monthly mortgage payment may also include PMI (private mortgage insurance). Lenders typically charge a PMI if your loan exceeds 80 percent of the sales price.

Homeowners Insurance – Most banks require that you hold homeowners insurance. Homeowner’s insurance protects from damage to the home from things like fire, theft or weather. Just because you have insurance doesn’t mean there are no costs to you remember to set aside your deductible.


While owning a home does have hidden costs the gain of homeownership is always more than the cost.  Contact your Coldwell Banker Upton-Massamont Agent today for a detailed look at homeownership.

Market Watch for Franklin & Hampshire Counties

The table below is a quick look at single family sales in Franklin & Hampshire Counties for October 14th-November 14th.  This is a good example of the activity we have seen for the past several months.  With 415 single family homes on the market in Franklin County and 667 homes in Hampshire County, supply appears to be holding steady.  Interest rates continue to remain low and with that in mind, this may be the right time for you to consider your next move.  Call one of our Coldwell Banker Upton-Massamont REALTORS to see how we can help you fulfill your home ownership goals.

 To see Single-Family Homes in Franklin County, MA click HERE.

To see Single-Family Homes in Hampshire County, MA click HERE.

Happy 4th of July!

In the Market for a VACATION HOME?

A summer home away from home can be a relaxing way to escape from the daily grind and enjoy quality time with friends and family. A vacation home is a large investment and some individuals may be on the fence about buying a home strictly for summer or winter seasons. However, there can be several pros to making a purchase, and taking several financial and personal factors into consideration may help consumers make the right decision for them. . . . . Read more.

Check out these Lake Properties 

6 Lake Drive
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