How do I budget for home repairs?
Save 1–4% of your home's value annually for maintenance, plus $2,000–$5,000 in a separate emergency repair fund.
The 1% rule
Set aside 1% of your home's value yearly. $400k home = $4,000/year. Older homes need 2–4%.
Sinking funds for big-ticket items
Roof: save $80–$150/month. HVAC: $50–$100/month. Water heater: $20–$40/month. Painting: $40–$80/month.
Emergency fund
Keep $2,000–$5,000 separate from your maintenance budget for true surprises (burst pipes, fallen trees).
Track your spend
Use Fixxy's free maintenance log to track every dollar spent and document the home's care for resale.
Frequently asked questions
What if I can't afford a big repair?
Options include 0% intro APR cards, HELOC, contractor financing (often 0% for 12 months), and FHA 203(k) loans for major work.