Hidden Costs of Owning a Home in Spokane: Maintenance, Taxes & Utilities
- Nick Briggs
- Oct 22
- 4 min read
Updated: Nov 2
The Real Costs of Owning a Home in Spokane in 2025
Owning a home is a milestone worth celebrating, but too often, homeowners in Spokane find themselves caught off guard by the ongoing expenses that go far beyond the mortgage. These hidden costs—especially in 2025’s shifting housing market—can impact everything from your savings to your resale value. As a Spokane real estate agent, I’ve worked with countless buyers who didn’t fully realize the true costs until it was too late. That’s exactly why I’ve written this guide.
What Are the Hidden Costs of Owning a Home in Spokane in 2025?
Many homeowners enter the market focused on price per square foot or interest rates, but it’s the long-term ownership costs that often hit hardest. These include:
Routine & emergency maintenance
Annual property taxes
Monthly utility bills
Seasonal service fees (yard, snow removal, pest control, etc.)
In 2025, Spokane’s neutral market is seeing greater inventory—up 36.5% year over year—which gives buyers more choices. But it also means there’s more to inspect, repair, and maintain than ever before.
Maintenance: The Unseen Expense Every Spokane Homeowner Should Expect
Whether it's Spokane’s cold winters or its warm dry summers, homes here face wear and tear that leads to maintenance bills. Here are some hidden costs of owning a home in Spokane.
Spokane 2025 Maintenance Cost Estimates:
Roof repairs (from snow damage or age): $1,200–$3,000
HVAC servicing: $175–$300 per visit
Gutter cleaning: $125–$250 bi-annually
Yard upkeep: $100–$300 monthly (depending on lot size)
🔧 Tip: Schedule inspections seasonally and maintain records to support future resale.
Property Taxes in Spokane: What You’ll Really Pay in 2025
While I can’t provide tax or legal advice, it’s important to understand that property taxes in Spokane are based on assessed home values—values that have continued to rise steadily. As of September 2025:
Median Sold Price: $429,000 (up 2.1% YoY)
Average Sold Price: $474,000 (up 2.2% YoY)
Higher sale prices can lead to larger property tax bills over time. Budgeting for tax adjustments is essential—especially if your home recently appraised higher than expected.
Always consult a tax advisor for specifics.
Utilities in Spokane: Monthly Bills That Can Sneak Up on You
Spokane homeowners in 2025 are seeing increased costs in nearly every utility category. Energy spikes during winter and summer months especially affect homes with older systems.
Average Utility Costs in Spokane (2025):
Electricity & Heating (gas or electric): $200–$350/month (seasonally higher)
Water/Sewer/Garbage: $125–$200/month
Internet/Basic Cable: $90–$150/month
🏡 Homes with poor insulation or outdated HVAC units can pay 30% more on heating/cooling.
💡 Local tip: Invest in an energy audit or smart thermostat to start lowering bills immediately.
How to Budget for the Hidden Costs of Owning a Home in Spokane
Planning for these costs isn't just smart—it's essential. Use these Spokane-focused strategies to stay ahead:
Create a Homeowner Reserve Fund – 1–2% of your home’s value/year.
Track Seasonal Costs – Yardwork, snow removal, gutter cleaning, etc.
Ask Your Realtor (me!) for Cost Benchmarks – Based on home age, size & neighborhood.
Review Utility Trends Annually – Adjust your usage or provider when possible.
📉 Note: Spokane’s average DOM (days on market) increased by 6.7% this year, reaching 32 days, meaning homes may sit longer before resale if deferred maintenance is evident.
FAQs About the Hidden Costs of Owning a Home in Spokane
What are the most common hidden costs of owning a home in Spokane? Maintenance (roof, yard, HVAC), property taxes, and higher-than-expected utilities top the list.
How much should I budget monthly for Spokane homeowner costs in 2025? A good rule is to reserve 1–2% of your home’s value annually for maintenance and surprises.
Are utilities in Spokane more expensive in winter? Yes, heating demands increase sharply between November–March, especially for older homes.
Can a Spokane real estate agent help with estimating total homeownership costs? Absolutely. I regularly provide buyers with realistic expense breakdowns tailored to Spokane neighborhoods and property types.
Work With a Spokane Realtor Who Knows the Real Costs
Hidden costs shouldn’t catch you off guard. As your local real estate expert in Spokane, I’ll guide you through every line item—from utilities and maintenance planning to long-term tax prep—before you buy or sell. In 2025, making informed decisions starts with working alongside someone who knows where costs creep in. Let’s make your next move a smart one.
📌 Related Blog: How to Buy a House in Spokane
About Me
My name is Nick Briggs
Being born and raised in Spokane I grew up knowing what a special place this city is, and it was my dream to help others create a life in this wonderful community by guiding them in real estate. I spent many years in the customer service industry, the experience of listening and communication showed me how much I truly loved helping people. I attended Gonzaga University and earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration to add to my knowledge of guiding, managing, negotiating, and listening to individuals, helping them achieve their real estate goals.
