4 Overlooked Expenses for First-time Homebuyers
That You Won’t Need to Worry About when You Choose to Buy at Somerville Cottages
Buying your first home is a momentous occasion, but before you break out the champagne and invite your friends to celebrate, you might realize there are a few purchases that you’ll still need to make before you move in.
Lawnmower - Even a push mower can cost hundreds of dollars, and don’t forget the weed wacker, edger, garden hose, rake, and blower you might also need. The good news is that when you buy at Somerville, all lawn maintenance is included in your HOA dues. At just $100 a month, that’s significantly less than traditional lawn care for most homes, plus it covers a lot more than just mowing. So now you have no yard work AND you don’t need to buy anything. That’s a time-consuming and costly item off your to-do list!
2. Landscaping - You want your new house to look amazing when you’re inviting people over for the first time, but plants, flowers, and mulch can add up quickly. Here at Somerville, your space already looks amazing the day you close because the landscaping is done for you. For the best value, ask about purchasing a move-in-ready home in Phase I (multiple floor plans available), and you’ll even receive potted plants on your porch (while supplies last).
Refrigerator - In most homes, the refrigerator doesn’t come standard. If buying new construction, you’ll likely see it as an upgrade. If you’re purchasing an older home, it may be included, but often the homeowner takes it with them. But don’t worry, the refrigerator is included at no additional cost here at Somerville.
Washer & Dryer - If you rented and had access to shared laundry, you’re likely relieved to no longer be spending money at those overpriced machines or carting laundry to your mom’s house. (No judgment!) But new homeowners often forget to account for this upfront purchase. Here at Somerville Cottages, we want to do everything we can to help first-time homebuyers shopping for single-family homes in Chattanooga, and that means May 1 through August 31, 2026, we’re giving every homebuyer a $1,000 gift card at closing to pay for an unexpected item. It can be a washer-and-dryer set, blinds, porch furniture, or even that backyard grill you thought you’d need to wait until next summer to afford.
If you’re ready for low-maintenance living at a reasonable cost and without any hassle, Somerville Cottages could be just what you’re looking for in South Chattanooga.
If you think you can’t afford new construction, we’re here to make it simple and easy. Our base contract is just $2,500 and you won’t make any other payments until you close. That’s less than most earnest money contracts for homes on the market today. Read our Steps To Get Started to see how easy we make home buying in Chattanooga.
