Colorado Springs Real Estate Blog

Hidden Costs Buyers Don’t Expect in Colorado Springs

Buying a home in Colorado Springs is exciting. The mountain views, outdoor lifestyle, and diverse neighborhoods attract buyers from all stages of life. Yet even well-prepared buyers are often surprised by hidden costs that do not always show up in online listings or initial conversations.

These expenses are not meant to discourage buyers, but understanding them upfront can help you plan wisely, avoid stress, and protect your investment in a region with unique environmental and infrastructure considerations.

Colorado Springs Is a Unique Market—And That Comes With Extras

Homes in this area are influenced by factors not common everywhere, including expansive soils, aging infrastructure in established neighborhoods, and environmental considerations like radon. Many costs are optional but highly recommended based on local conditions.

Knowing what to expect allows buyers to move forward with confidence instead of surprises.

Sewer Scope Inspections

One of the most commonly overlooked costs is a sewer scope inspection. A standard home inspection does not fully evaluate the condition of the sewer line, which runs underground from the home to the city connection.

In Colorado Springs, shifting soils and older pipe materials increase the risk of:

  • Root intrusion
  • Cracked or collapsed pipes
  • Offset or misaligned joints

According to the Colorado Geological Survey, expansive clay soils can expand and contract with moisture changes, placing stress on underground utilities over time.

Potential cost if ignored:
Sewer repairs can range from a few thousand dollars to well over $15,000 depending on severity and access.

Radon Testing

Colorado is known for elevated radon levels, and El Paso County frequently reports higher-than-average results. Radon is a naturally occurring gas that can enter homes through foundations and crawl spaces.

Radon testing is typically paid for by the buyer and is separate from a general inspection.

Why it matters:

  • Radon is odorless and invisible
  • Long-term exposure is a health risk
  • Mitigation systems are effective but come at a cost

Information from the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment emphasizes the importance of testing during real estate transactions.

Typical mitigation cost:
$1,200 to $2,500 depending on the home

Soil and Structural Evaluations

Colorado Springs’ soil conditions can also affect foundations. While most homes perform well, certain properties may show:

  • Cracks beyond normal settling
  • Sloping floors
  • Doors or windows that no longer align

In these cases, buyers sometimes choose to hire a structural engineer, which is an additional out-of-pocket cost but can provide peace of mind.

HOA Fees and Transfer Costs

Many buyers are surprised to learn that HOA-related costs extend beyond monthly dues.

Possible HOA expenses include:

  • Transfer fees
  • Working capital contributions
  • Document fees

These vary widely by neighborhood and association. Reviewing HOA documents carefully is essential before closing.

Utility Setups and Ongoing Costs

Colorado Springs Utilities serves most homes, but setup fees and deposits can catch buyers off guard. Additionally, utility costs may vary based on:

  • Home age and insulation
  • Square footage
  • Landscaping and irrigation systems

The Colorado Springs Utilities provides average usage data, but actual costs depend on the property.

Maintenance Unique to This Area

Certain ongoing costs are common for local homeowners:

  • Snow removal or snow melt systems
  • Roof maintenance due to hail exposure
  • Tree root management near sewer lines
  • HVAC servicing due to elevation and temperature swings

While these may not be immediate closing costs, they should be factored into long-term ownership planning.

Why These Costs Catch Buyers Off Guard

Many of these expenses are:

  • Optional but strongly recommended
  • Unique to this region
  • Discovered only after inspections begin

Buyers relocating from other states are often unfamiliar with soil movement, radon prevalence, or sewer line responsibilities.

Planning Ahead Makes All the Difference

Hidden costs are not deal-breakers. They are simply part of buying responsibly in Colorado Springs.

Working with a professional who understands local conditions helps buyers:

  • Anticipate expenses early
  • Prioritize inspections wisely
  • Budget realistically
  • Avoid last-minute stress

Final Thoughts

Buying a home in Colorado Springs is a rewarding investment, but it is not just about the purchase price. Understanding the hidden costs from sewer scopes to radon testing allows buyers to make informed decisions and protect both their finances and their peace of mind.

Preparation is not about expecting problems. It is about planning well in a unique and beautiful place to call home.

Written BY:

Alzira Escobar-Pruitt, REALTOR® | SRES®
Providing education-first real estate guidance throughout Colorado Springs.
Focused on proactive planning, inspections, and helping buyers make confident decisions.

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