And How to Budget Smarter Factoring maintenance costs and asking for seller's utility bills E.g. Rising insurance premiums, HOA fees, and utility costs are catching buyers off guard. Buying your first home in the Bay Area is exciting! It’s a milestone that represents stability, pride, and a place to truly call your own. But here’s the part many first‑time buyers don’t expect: the costs don’t stop at the closing table. As Realtors who’ve walked alongside countless first‑time b