Brian Wittman | Blue Jean Broker
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Your mortgage is not the whole cost of the house.

The payment gets you in the door. This shows what to set aside each year to keep the house running, from the roof to the water heater, and whether the cushion you have right now is enough. It is a give-first estimate for planning, and nothing here is saved.

Your Numbers

The cushion you kept after closing, or what you have saved since. Most people have something. The question is whether it is enough.

How Much To Set Aside
Recommended maintenance set-aside 1.0%
1%2%3%
Good for newer homes
New construction, recent renovations, or homes with updated systems and warranties.

1% is your starting point. Depending on your home, you may want to plan for more:

  • HVAC 10+ years old? Consider 2% or more
  • Roof 15+ years old? Consider 2 to 3%
  • Water heater 8+ years old? Consider 2% or more
  • Original appliances 10+ years? Consider 2% or more
  • New construction with warranties? 1% is probably fine

The goal is not to guess perfectly. It is to not be surprised.

Your yearly plan
Annual set-aside
$3,000
Monthly set-aside
$250
This is the number that keeps you from scrambling when the HVAC dies or the water heater goes.
Your Current Reserve
You have
$5,000
That covers
20 months
You are in good shape. A year or more of coverage gives you breathing room. Remember that this reserve does not reduce what the house will need. It just means you are ready when it asks. Keep refilling it as you use it.

Want help building this into your full homeownership plan?

Your set-aside is one piece. Book a call and we will put it next to your reserves, your protection, and what is coming for your home, so the whole picture works together.

Schedule time with me

Every figure here is an illustrative estimate for planning only. Actual maintenance and repair costs vary by home condition, age, location, and usage.

© 2026 Brian Wittman, Blue Jean Broker | Chicago suburbs, Illinois

Real Estate | Mortgage | Life Insurance | Financial Literacy

Educational tool only. Not financial, real estate, tax, or legal advice. Brian Wittman is a licensed real estate broker with Real Broker, LLC (IL License #475.164962). Estimates are illustrative and for planning only; actual costs vary by home. Consult a licensed professional for guidance specific to your situation. Full disclosures at bluejeanbroker.com/disclosures.