Quite often, when I'm showing a property, I am asked to get the amount of the average utility bills.  In our area, that is a combination of natural gas and electric.  I, of course, happily comply.

I do, however, explain that the current owner's utility charges are in no way indicative of what the buyer's utility charges would be if he or she purchases the home.  Maybe the current owners spend three months out of the year in Florida or Arizona and they leave their thermostat set at 50 degrees.  Maybe they set the temperature at 80 degrees and sit around their house in T-shirts and shorts all winter long. (my grandfather used to do this).

It could be as simple as mild winter verses our current, nasty winter.  There is also the rise in the price of natural gas and electricity in general that contribute to increases in utility bills.  So many variables affect utility costs that it is difficult to project them with any accuracy.  Here are, however, a few ways to minimize them:

1.  Make sure the home is properly insulated.  Get a home inspection.

2.  Check the windows and doors and insure that they seal properly and there are no drafts.  Add weather stripping as necessary.

3.  Have all the wall/pipe penetrations caulked and sealed.

4.  Have the furnace clean and checked at least once a year and replace the filters as necessary even during the summer.

Don't let average utility bills influence whether or not you look at a property.  Evaluate it for yourself and if you purchase the property take the steps necessary to minimize the affect of utility costs on your monthly budget.

Take care and stay warm.