Holidays Got Your Bank Account Down? You Can Still Buy That New Home!

Thinking of buying a home in the Triangle in 2017 but worried that the expenses of the busy holiday season might have set you back? Use these simple & easy home-saving tips to help your savings account recover from holiday gift-giving.

Saving on Buying

One of the most important things you can do, especially when saving up for something large, like a home purchase, is to create a budget—and stick to it. Here are some ways you can make sure to stick to your spending budget.

1. Plan your meals, make a shopping list, and buy only those items.
2. Plan meals and shopping lists around coupons and local grocery store savings.
3. Order online to find discounted goods.
4. Buy in bulk instead of frequently buying the same things.
5. Buy generic brands whenever you can.
6. Wait 48 hours before buying to avoid impulse buys.
7. Remove credit cards from your favorite online shopping sites.

Saving on Banking

Tuning in to your bank account, credit cards, and savings accounts can be another great way to reduce your costs, make more money, and pad your new home savings. Here are some easy pointers.

1. Shop around to make sure you’re getting the best deal. This includes comparing ATM and savings account fees as well as interest rates on your savings.
2. Make a separate savings account for your home savings.
3. Automate savings transfers to your new home account every month.
4. Call your credit card company to ask for a lower interest rate, or transfer your balance to a card with a lower rate.

Saving Around the House

Keep those monthly energy bills low to keep those savings adding up! Here are some easy ways to ensure you’ll see a lower bill every month.

1. Unplug appliances when not in use. Make it easy by using a power strip and switching it off at night.
2. Swap out incandescent bulbs for LED and energy efficient bulbs.
3. Turn off lights, fans, and other appliances when not in use.
4. Turn down the heat and bundle up in winter. Turn up the AC and use a fan in summer.
5. Change out your air filters in your HVAC and in your car to increase efficiency.
6. Install a programmable thermostat to ensure you’re not paying for usage when your home is empty.
7. Go through your attic, basement, and closets to gather things you don’t use—and have a yard sale. (This will also make moving much easier!)

Saving on Dining and Entertainment

Changing your entertainment habits might not sound like a lot of fun, but it can result in big savings. Here are some easy (and fun!) ways to cut down on your “fun” expenses.

1. Cook in instead of dining out. Not much of a cook? Invest in a crock pot!
2. Love leftovers. Find new and interesting ways to dress them up to make them into different meals.
3. Bring your lunch to work and pack kids’ lunches.
4. Host a potluck instead of going out to eat with friends or for celebrations.
5. Cancel any subscriptions, memberships, or services you don’t use.
6. Find ways to entertain the kids for free—like game nights, backyard sports, a home garden, biking around the neighborhood, or visiting a local park.
7. Have a staycation. Sure, winter is a great time to beat the cold and head for the beach, but save money instead by challenging yourself to find new ways to explore and enjoy your town.

Keep Your Eyes on the Prize—Your New Raleigh Home!

You might be tempted to buy that shiny-new car or brand-new couch, but picture that beautiful home in Raleigh you’re going to buy! Owning a home in Raleigh is well-worth the wait (and the sacrifices), so always remember to keep your eyes on the prize!

If you’re thinking of buying a home in Raleigh, then it’s time to contact the Rachel Kendall Team. We can help you explore life in Raleigh, learn more about buying a home here, and successfully relocate to the Triangle. Contact us today to start searching homes for sale in the Triangle.