betterhomebudget

Home Budget checklist

16 steps to a home budget that covers the bills homeowners forget: taxes, insurance, maintenance and the big replacements.

Track your progress with a free accountGet the free Homeowner Budget Workbook

Know your real costs

Every cost of owning, as a monthly number.

  • Add up your true monthly cost of owning Guide
  • Check your property record and exemptions Guide
  • Review your homeowners insurance coverage Guide
  • Read your last escrow analysis Guide
  • If you have an HOA, check the reserve fund Guide

Save for the house

Two pots: the house and your living costs.

  • Set a monthly maintenance reserve Guide
  • Write down the age of your roof, HVAC and water heater Guide
  • Start a replacement fund for the oldest system Guide
  • Make sure your emergency fund covers your deductible Guide

Lower the running costs

Small jobs and a few phone calls.

  • Make three free changes to lower utility bills Guide
  • Do the seasonal preventive maintenance jobs Guide
  • Check whether a tax appeal is worth it Guide
  • Work out a refinance break-even if rates have dropped Guide

Plan big projects

Before you call a contractor.

  • Decide how you'll pay for the next big project Guide
  • Get three comparable quotes Guide
  • Decide if it's worth it for you, not just for resale Guide