Tax: Cost $2836.91 - that includes $327 for water, $294 for sewer, and $165 for garbage pickup. It also includes a reduction grant of $770 for the home being our primary residence. If one of us was age 65 or older we would qualify for an additional grant and would only be paying $2561.91 for the year.
Home insurance: including coverage for earthquakes (something we didn't have to buy in Alberta) $801.
In Alberta our previous home was twice as large and twice as expensive. The taxes were $5900 a year and we had to pay for water, sewer and garbage separately coming to approximately $90 per month. The house insurance was $1550 for the year.
Old Alberta home total for insurance, tax and basic utilities (not including electricity, natural gas, telephone, cable or internet) was $8530. Our new beautiful little Island pad is $3637.91. A difference of $4892.09 per year!
By downsizing our space we have reduced our monthly outgoings therefore we get to keep more of the money we make. We have zero regrets and love our little Island pad. Cheers!
Downsized bills are great! Many of our expenses are similar these days too....
ReplyDeleteFunny how the less "stuff" or "space" you own how much less it costs to maintain and insure.
DeleteThat's a big difference in cost! I'm sure your utilities are much lower too.
ReplyDeleteYes, they are, especially the energy costs. I am still trying to conserve though.
DeleteIt is such an inspiration to see what hard work and effort can do for your bottom line. I'm so impressed!
ReplyDeleteIt was a long haul but finally we are seeing the fruits of the past two years.
DeleteWe are refinancing our town condo and it will save us about $500 a month. Fortunately the housing market has come up enough to get us above water on our old higher percentage loan. - Margy
ReplyDeleteWow, that is a huge savings per month for you! So happy to hear that your equity is increasing again in your home.
DeleteThat's interesting that your water/sewer/garbage are lumped in with your taxes. Is the rate on those extra items calculated by use or house size, or is it one flat fee the same for all households?
ReplyDeleteGood question. I have to assume it is based on lot size for water and sewer and flat fee per household for garbage pickup. I am going to ask the neighbors for comparison - that or call the town.
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