Property taxes and other levies against the property, such as homeowner association fees, mortgage payments and hazard insurance are other obligations necessary to maintain the property in good condition and protect the ownership interest. Also, the owner receives tax advantages. Some of these are useful in the short run, and some valuable when selling.
Home maintenance is more than just cleaning.
A diligent maintenance program can eliminate many big problems. Harris recommends developing a seasonal list of maintenance chores. Summer is the intensive lawn-care season, for example. Fall is the time to caulk and paint. Spring is the traditional time for cleaning.