Most Canadian purchasers are torn between buying a house or a condo. They love the idea of having the extra square footage, private yard, garage and possible private pool of a house but also love the “lock-and-leave” lifestyle of a condo. It is a very personal decision. I am often asked about the extra costs of maintaining a house. A landscaping service is usually $80-90/month. Depending on the yard, you may need a landscaper as a regular monthly service. If the yard is “xeriscaped” which means it has only desert plants and cactus, you may be able to get away with only getting landscaping service 4-6x per year. Even with rocks, desert plants and cactus, we still get plenty of weeds that need to be controlled and the plants need to be trimmed back. A swimming pool definitely requires monthly maintenance (twice per month in the summer due to the heat). Most pool companies charge $90 per month including labor and chemicals. I am often asked by Canadians if they can just drain the pool when they are not here. Unfortunately no, the heat will damage the plaster or pebbletec. If left without water all summer the bottom of the pool may crack. A property caretaker or concierge service can check your house regularly as discussed in my last blog. A security system is usually $300-400 to install and then $40/month for monitoring. If someone breaks in the security company will alert the police and will also call you or a local contact. This gives most people peace of mind. I always recommend getting to know the neighbors as well. Having the next door neighbor keep an eye on your house can be the best security available. Feel free to call or email me for a list of my favorite landscapers, pool companies, security companies, property caretakers etc. We are here to help!
Marc Brodeur, REALTOR
www.ThePhoenixExperts.com
Marc@ThePhoenixExperts.com
1-800-300-0263
