Plan for New Year's Resolutions Early
This year plan for one of those New Year's Resolutions early.
If you've ever put "Buy a House" as a New Year's resolution but you're still renting, I'm talking to you.
This is when you should start working on that resolution, not in January. This is the time of year most people spend way too much money, use up all their savings, and run up credit card balances. Those are not the steps to prepare for buying a house.
In case you've ever wondered about holiday spending, here's some interesting statistics:
Almost 22% of people start their holiday shopping in October
The average consumer spends $1,226 on holiday gifts
That number doubles with household incomes over $100,000
68% of consumers pay for holiday purchases with savings and 55% pay with credit cards
5% of you will BORROW money from family or friends to pay for holiday shopping, while another 5.5% will take out a personal loan
Payday loans will be used to pay for 5.4% of holiday purchases
On average you'll spend $200 on decorations, $50 on flowers and postage, and $75 or more on a Christmas tree
Most of you will spend at least $100 on a gift for yourself
Single shoppers will make impulse purchases 45% more often than married shoppers
What does all this mean to you? Well, if you want to buy a home, don't start thinking about it in January when you are making resolutions. Start thinking about it now before you use up your savings and run up your credit card balances. And, certainly don't be part of any of those 5% groups who borrow money to cover the holiday season.
Here are a dozen money saving ideas to help you spend less and finally be able to make the "Buying a House" resolution be one you'll keep.
Make a detailed budget and stick to it.
Don't blow your budget just because something is on sale.
When your list is finished, STOP SHOPPING!
Include yourself in your budget so you don't impulse buy yourself a gift.
Pay cash.
Plan well and give yourself plenty of time so you can find good deals and not pay expedited shipping charges, etc.
Cut back on the extras you usually buy, like that latte, to help pay for the holiday expenses.
Get your family to agree to a "Secret Santa" rather than buying everyone a gift.
Choose more meaningful, thoughtful gifts rather than more expensive ones.
Give gifts of your time or services instead of material gifts.
Take this time to teach your children valuable life lessons about not getting everything they want.
Host a potluck rather than paying for all the food yourself.
If you would like more advice on planning for a home purchase, give me a call. Let's get you started on the path to buying a home to host next year's holiday parties!
Some statistics from Much Needed
Photo by freestocks.org from Pexels
