Usually a home's purchase price can be used to project maintenance costs. The recommendations for annual maintenance costs range from 1.5 to 4 percent of the home's original cost. While this is not always true, especially when the purchase price of a home is three-quarters of a million dollars, it is a good rule of thumb for the average home buyer.

Since most home buyers are focusing on making the down payment and not saving for future repairs, a home warranty provides a good back-up plan. It is important to remember, especially if you’ve been renting, that you are responsible for replacing your water heater or furnace should it go awry.

You can purchase a home warranty, and all Realtors are required by law to offer you this option. Most home warranties cost between $300-$400 and will cover many major home systems and built-in appliances for one full year after close. A home warranty will either pay to repair or replace a covered item and the homeowner pays a minimal deductible rather than the full cost of repairs. It's an easy way to manage your home's finances and plan for those unexpected repairs.