Maintenance & Repairs
Upkeep, vendors, and keeping a home in shape.
How Property Taxes Are Prorated at Closing (Simple Guide)
Property taxes are split between buyer and seller based on who owned the home on each day of the tax year, calculated to the exact day of closing.
How Owners Can Force a Special HOA Meeting (2024)
Most HOA bylaws let owners force a special meeting once 10-25% of members sign a written petition on a specific topic.
How Often to Test Private Well Water (and What For)
Private well owners should test water once a year for bacteria and nitrates, and more often after floods, repairs, or a change in taste or smell.
How Often to Pump a Septic Tank Based on Household Size
A typical 1,000-gallon septic tank needs pumping every 3-5 years for a family of four, but usage and tank size shift that timeline a lot.
How Often Should You Update Your Home Inventory? (2024)
Update your home inventory at least once a year, plus immediately after any purchase over $500 or any storm, fire, or theft event.
How Often Should an HOA Update Its Reserve Study? (2024)
Most states expect a full HOA reserve study every 3-5 years, with a desk-top update every year in between to keep the numbers honest.
How Much to Budget for Home Maintenance Each Year: 1% Rule
Most financial planners recommend setting aside 1% to 4% of your home's value each year for maintenance and repairs, adjusted for the home's age.
How Much Should an HOA Keep in Its Operating Account?
Most HOAs should hold 3-6 months of operating expenses in cash, separate from the reserve fund used for roofs, paving, and big repairs.
How Much Salt Your Water Softener Really Needs (2024)
Most water softeners need 40-80 lbs of salt refilled every 4-6 weeks, but the right amount depends on your household size and water hardness level.
How Much Master Insurance Coverage Does Your HOA Need?
Most HOA master policies should cover 100% of the replacement cost of all structures, plus at least $1-2 million in liability protection.
How Much Landlord Liability Coverage Is Enough? (2024 Guide)
Most landlord policies default to $300,000 in liability coverage, but a single slip-and-fall lawsuit can exceed $1 million in damages and legal fees.
How Long Will It Take to Sell My House? Days-on-Market Explained
The median US home spent roughly 47-55 days on the market in 2024, but condition problems like a bad roof or old wiring can add weeks to that number.
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