The congregation should pay all utilities and maintenance on the parsonage. There has been much discussion in recent years about the value of a housing allowance for the pastor versus providing a parsonage. Some congregations find that providing a housing allowance is to their advantage as well. Congregations should carefully discuss any decision that might mean a change in their housing arrangements for pastors, utilizing financial and real estate persons in their community, and helping the pastor receive solid financial guidance as well. One factor to consider is that clergy who have lived in a parsonage for their entire careers will have no equity and may not have money for a down payment, if they move to a church which doesn't have a parsonage.
Some congregations make provision for loaning the new pastor money for the down payment.
In such cases, the amount of the loan may be repaid by being deducted from the housing allowance on a monthly basis. Carefully written agreements should be established and signed if the church loans the pastor money for a downpayment. A housing allowance should provide the pastor with the ability to purchase and maintain a home in the community or area. Work with a real estate person and find the median price of a home and the cost of taxes, utilities, maintenance, insurance, mortgage, etc. Such figures will give you a good idea of the housing allowance that needs to be considered for your community.