Owning a high-end property comes with year-round expenses, but winter brings a unique set of maintenance costs that can easily run into the thousands of dollars. While many dream of sprawling mansions, few consider the financial reality of keeping them in prime condition through freezing temperatures. Real estate and home repair experts estimate that maintaining a luxury home during winter requires proactive investment to avoid far more expensive damage later.
Snow and Ice Management: A Recurring Expense
Professional snow removal is a significant cost for large properties. Bill Ferris, president at Decor Outdoor, estimates this can range from $3,000 to $8,000 per winter. This covers driveways, walkways, and private roads, ensuring both access and safety. Delaying snow removal isn’t just an inconvenience; the freeze-thaw cycle causes surface damage, increasing long-term repair bills and liability risks.
Pool and Spa Winterization: Avoiding Costly Repairs
Luxury homes often include pools and spas, which must be properly winterized to prevent damage. Dawson Boyer, owner and broker at Providence Hill Real Estate, says this typically costs $2,000 to $5,000 depending on size and features. Neglecting this step can lead to burst pipes, cracked tiles, and other expensive repairs.
Heating System Maintenance: Preventing Breakdowns
Annual inspection and optimization of heating systems (boilers, furnaces, radiant heat) is crucial. Ferris notes that for larger homes, this service costs $400 to $1,200. Overloading these systems during winter leads to rapid inefficiency, so proactive maintenance preserves equipment and prevents breakdowns.
Protecting Exterior Surfaces: A Long-Term Investment
Wood, metal, and stone exteriors are vulnerable to moisture and temperature fluctuations. Covering furniture and applying seasonal treatments can cost $1,000 to $4,000 on top of the furniture’s price. This protects finishes, extends their lifespan, and reduces the need for costly refinishing or replacement.
In total, maintaining a luxury home through winter can easily add $6,400 to $17,200 in expenses. These costs aren’t just about comfort; they’re about preserving a significant financial investment. Ignoring them now risks far greater damage later.
