Saving for a Home? Here are Some Money Saving Tips…

SAVING FOR A HOME? HERE ARE SOME MONEY SAVING TIPS…

By Veronica Kraft

Trying to save money to afford a home in this market? Use these tips to manage your budget and save some cash…

1. SET A BUDGET FOR EATING OUT

Limit your eating out & entertainment spending by always carrying a cooler or lunch bag with blue ices inside. Place a sandwich or snack inside each time you leave the house, so if the urge to grab food at a fast-food drive through arises, you already have a healthy, pre-made alternative to grab. This can save you more than $100 a month on impulse food purchases.

2.  MAKE A GROCERY LIST & STICK TO IT

Grocery shopping can turn into other types of shopping. Make a grocery list, stick to the essentials for home meals and limit boxed meals since they are very expensive. Avoid other grocery aisles, including the gift aisle, cosmetics, and the seasonal aisle to avoid finding something extra to grab for your cart. Set your budget at a certain amount and keep to it. This will lower monthly expenses.

3.  INSTEAD OF HEADING TO A BAR OR CLUB, GO BIKING OR WALKING

One alcoholic drink can turn into two or three when out with friends. And the alcohol can produce the munchies, which can cost you when at a nice restaurant. Instead of going to the local watering hole, take yourself or a group on a bike ride, group walk or kayak for a healthier and cheaper outdoor alternative.

4.  SHOP AROUND FOR INSURANCE 

If your car or home insurance is getting costly, talk to your provider about discounts, or shop around. Sometimes, you can save up to $50-$75 per month on insurance if you simply ask or compare. 

5.  PAY CREDIT CARDS OFF MONTHLY

To avoid interest, pay your credit cards off monthly and limit spending to essentials. A hefty credit card bill can be avoided by simply not using the card for more than $50-$100 per month. 

6.  HOST A POT-LUCK WITH CO-WORKERS 

Getting together with coworkers for lunch doesn’t always mean having to eat out or order in. Host a pot luck at the office to have an inexpensive but fun day where costs are shared by all. It may help ease office tensions and you’ll save some money in the process.