The Rise of ‘Lifestyle Maintenance’ Costs: When Divorce Reveals Hidden Homeownership Burdens
A broken air conditioner. No hot water. Suddenly facing a list of home repairs you didn’t even know existed. For Kyle Richards, navigating her separation from Mauricio Umansky has meant confronting the often-overlooked financial and logistical realities of solo homeownership – a situation increasingly common as divorce rates remain significant and more women are financially independent. But Richards’ experience isn’t unique; it’s a symptom of a growing trend: the escalating cost of lifestyle maintenance, and how divorce can dramatically expose those hidden burdens.
The Unexpected Costs of Keeping the Lights On
Richards’ candid livestream comments about struggling with basic home upkeep – from air conditioning repairs to understanding what “rain gutters” even are – resonated with many. While the initial mortgage payment often dominates the homeownership conversation, the ongoing expenses of maintaining a property can be substantial, and disproportionately fall to one partner post-divorce. According to a recent report by Angi, homeowners spend an average of 1-4% of their home’s value annually on maintenance and repairs. For a home valued at $8.3 million, like Richards’ Encino estate, that translates to $83,000 to $332,000 per year. These aren’t just luxury upgrades; they’re essential to preserving the value and habitability of the property.
The Gendered Division of Labor & Home Maintenance
Richards’ realization that her husband handled the “heavy lifting things” around the house highlights a long-standing societal pattern. Studies consistently show that men are more likely to perform home repairs and maintenance tasks than women. This isn’t necessarily about skill; it’s often about ingrained expectations and a division of labor that leaves women less familiar with the practical aspects of homeownership. As divorce rates continue to impact households, more women are finding themselves solely responsible for these tasks, and the associated costs. This can range from hiring professionals for repairs to learning DIY skills – both of which require time and financial investment.
“It’s been an adjustment for sure,” Richards admitted, and that adjustment is often a financial wake-up call. The emotional toll of divorce is compounded by the practical challenges of managing a household alone, particularly a large one.
Beyond Repairs: The Expanding Scope of Lifestyle Maintenance
The concept of “lifestyle maintenance” extends far beyond just fixing broken appliances. It encompasses a growing list of services and technologies designed to simplify life, but which come with a price tag. Consider:
- Smart Home Technology: While offering convenience, smart home systems require ongoing maintenance, software updates, and potential repairs.
- Landscaping & Pool Care: Maintaining a visually appealing property often requires professional landscaping and pool services, adding significant monthly expenses.
- Security Systems: Home security systems, while providing peace of mind, come with monitoring fees and potential maintenance costs.
- Home Warranties: While offering some protection against unexpected repairs, home warranties often have limitations and deductibles.
These services, often taken for granted during a marriage, become glaring expenses when one person is solely responsible for covering them. The rise of these “convenience” costs is a key driver of the increasing financial burden of maintaining a desired lifestyle.
The Future of Solo Homeownership: Proactive Planning & Financial Literacy
Richards’ situation serves as a cautionary tale, but also an opportunity for proactive planning. For those contemplating divorce, or already navigating it, a thorough assessment of homeownership costs is crucial. This includes:
Creating a Detailed Home Maintenance Budget
Don’t rely on averages. Get quotes for common repairs, landscaping services, and potential upgrades. Factor in a contingency fund for unexpected expenses.
Learning Basic Home Maintenance Skills
Empower yourself with the knowledge to handle minor repairs and preventative maintenance. Online resources and local workshops can be invaluable.
Exploring Financial Assistance Programs
Research local and national programs that offer financial assistance for home repairs, particularly for low-income homeowners.
Considering Downsizing
If the financial burden of maintaining a large property is overwhelming, downsizing to a more manageable home may be a viable option.
Ultimately, the key to navigating the challenges of solo homeownership lies in financial literacy and proactive planning. As more individuals embrace independent living, understanding the true cost of maintaining a desired lifestyle will become increasingly essential. The days of assuming someone else will “handle it” are over.
What are your biggest concerns about the hidden costs of homeownership? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
Angi’s Home Maintenance Cost Guide
Financial Planning for Divorce: Protecting Your Assets
