Think owning a home will bring surprise expenses that wreck your budget? This episode breaks down exactly what you’ll pay—and why it’s not as scary as you’ve heard.

Synopsis:

In this myth-busting continuation of the 20 Most Frequently Asked Questions, David Sidoni tackles one of the biggest fears holding renters back: hidden costs. From rising property taxes and insurance to repairs and HOAs, David exposes the truth behind these so-called “surprises” and shows how proper planning makes them predictable. If you’ve been scared off by online horror stories or clickbait headlines, this episode gives you the clarity and confidence to stop renting and start planning. You’ll walk away with real numbers, smart strategies, and a clear-eyed understanding of how homeownership costs actually work.

Promise Delivered:

You’ll learn how to predict and plan for every cost of homeownership—so nothing feels “hidden” or unexpected. This episode replaces fear with facts and shows that a well-built budget can make homeownership not only possible, but powerful.

Quote:

“The taxes and insurance are not surprises—they’re scheduled and predictable. And if they go up? They go up in rent too. You’re just not paying attention.”

Highlights:

• Why most “hidden” costs are just poorly explained (and how to plan for them)
• How PITI (Principal, Interest, Taxes, Insurance) gives you a complete budget view
• Why rising property taxes and insurance aren’t deal breakers
• The renter’s blind spot: you’re already paying these increases—just for someone else’s benefit
• How to estimate and plan for HOAs, repairs, and future costs with confidence
• When fear is valid—and when it’s just misinformation
• The biggest budgeting mindset shift every buyer needs

Referenced Episodes:

• 9 – How Much Money Do I Need To Make To Buy My First Home?
• 75 – Inspection Red Flags, New Tips For 2022 Bidding Wars, And…To Wait, Or Not to Wait?
• 110 – Home Inspections For First-Time Home Buyers
• 162 – How Much Home Can You Afford With Your Salary?
• 174 – How much Income do I need to make to Buy? DETAILS
• 186 – INTERVIEW: Buying a Home with 300K of Student Debt
• 219 – How Much Money Do You Need To Make To Buy A Home - For REALS!
• 220 – Interview With Clarisse - Home Inspections: When And How To Walk Away From The Deal
• 280 – Don’t think you can buy a home? - Financial Planning 101
• 322 – Am I Ready to Buy a Home? The 5 Questions You Must Ask
• 339 – Don’t Get Pre-Qualified—Get a Plan (INTERVIEW)
• 340 – Down Payment Assistance, Discovery Calls & Lending Myths (INTERVIEW)
• 350 – From ‘Years Away’ to Homeowner: Your Last Lease Ever

Connect with me to find a trusted realtor in your area or to answer your burning questions!

Subscribe to our YouTube Channel @HowToBuyaHome

Instagram @HowtoBuyAHomePodcast

Tik Tok @HowToBuyAHome

Visit our Resource Center to "Ask David" AND get your FREE Home Buying Starter Kit!

David Sidoni, the "How to Buy a Home Guy," is a seasoned real estate professional and consumer advocate with two decades of experience helping first-time homebuyers navigate the real estate market. His podcast, "How to Buy a Home," is a trusted resource for anyone looking to buy their first home. It offers expert advice, actionable tips, and inspiring stories from real first-time homebuyers. With a focus on making the home-buying process accessible and understandable, David breaks down complex topics into easy-to-follow steps, covering everything from budgeting and financing to finding the right home and making an offer.

Subscribe for regular market updates, and leave a review to help us reach more people. Ready for an honest, informed home-buying experience? Viva la Unicorn Revolution - join us!

Visit the Podcast library to check out the rest of this series.