Most buyers budget for the purchase price… then get surprised by the ownership costs. Holiday homes often cost more than a normal home because they’re exposed to the elements and they sit empty.
The 6 cost buckets to plan for
Finance: mortgage + rates changes
Insurance: can be higher in coastal / cyclone / bushfire / flood zones
Rates & utilities: ongoing even when you’re away
Maintenance: decks, paint, gutters, corrosion, gardens
Repairs after storms: the “surprise” bucket
Management (optional): cleaner, handyman, property manager if renting
Why empty homes cost more
When nobody’s there:
leaks go unnoticed
mould builds
pests move in
storm damage worsens
gardens grow wild fast
How smart owners make it easy
schedule gutter/pest/AC servicing
have a local “storm check” contact
use simple smart devices (optional)
pick durable materials and low-maintenance landscaping
Note: This is general info only. For financial/tax advice, speak with a licensed professional.
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