If you have a new property, it may not cost much but an older home 10-20 years old requires approximately an average of $250 per month in maintenance costs not including capital costs.

The cost of maintaining a home in North America depends on the location and the age of the home. We have however identified key items that need regular maintenance and some that need complete replacement after a few years. Regular recurring costs in a home are:

1. Lawn Care: Maintenance package for weed control and aeration may be around $400-$600 per year for an average size lawn. 
2. Plumbing: Monthly cost for a protection plan for repairs may be around $15 per month. 
3. Cleaning Supplies: $10 per month. 
4. Repainting: May need to spend around $50-$100 each year for paint touch ups. 
5. Furnace: Monthly cost for a protection plan for serving and repairs may be around $25 per month. In addition you may need to spend $15 on a furnace filter every three months. 
6. Air Conditioning: Monthly cost for a protection plan for serving and repairs may be around $25 per month. 
7. Duct Cleaning: It costs around $200 for duct cleaning and this may only be required once in 2-3 years.
8. Garage Door Opener: it may cost around $250 to install a new garage door opener.
9. Roof Repair: It May cost $200-$400 each time a shingle comes out due to a storm or strong winds. 
10. Miscellaneous: Light bulbs, batteries or any other unplanned items should be budgeted at around $30 per month.

If your home is older, these costs could increase with time.

Capital long term costs in a home:

1. New Roof Installation – could cost between $3000 – $5000 for a shingles roof.
2. Painting – $150-$250 per room
3. Driveway Repair 
4. Window Replacement
5. Flooring replacement – $7 per square feet for a laminate or hardwood floor.

The cost of maintenance of a home depends upon the age of the property but you should at least budget for the above stated costs for a home.