True cost of owning a second home
Owning a second home or vacation property can be expensive in terms of time and money.
- Hidden costs associated with owning a second home include outfitting the home with appliances, furniture, utilities, and maintenance.
- Property taxes in sought-after vacation destinations can be high, and recent tax law changes have increased carrying costs for second homes.
- Getting a mortgage for a vacation house can be costly, with higher down payment requirements and interest rates.
- Homeowners insurance is becoming more expensive due to climate change-related disasters.
- Renting out a second home can help reduce costs, but there are tax implications and limitations on short-term vacation rentals.
- Owning a second home can limit travel to other destinations and may require managing urgent household needs or tenant issues.
It’s important to consider the impact on financial plans and seek advice from a financial advisor before buying a second home. The decision to buy a second home depends on individual financial situations, preferences, and how they may change over time. Renting luxury homes in different destinations can provide flexibility and avoid the responsibilities of owning a second home.