For the last decade, millennials and now Gen Z have been criticized by older generations for prioritizing experiences over homeownership. Contrary to popular belief, you can still go out for brunch, travel, and enjoy life while saving for a house. It doesn’t have to be an all-or-nothing situation, so go ahead and order that avocado toast.
If you’re looking to purchase a home in the near future without sacrificing the enjoyment of your daily life, follow these tips.
Set clear goals and track progress.
Set tangible goals, create timelines for accomplishing those goals, and write them down. Start by determining how much you need for a down payment, and use budgeting apps or spreadsheets to track your progress. Make sure to set aside a ‘fun fund,’ about 10% of your income, for entertainment and experiences. Seeing your savings grow can be the motivation you need to help stay on track without feeling deprived.
Be realistic.
A budget is a must when saving for a house. Outline your income and expenses to see exactly where your money is going. Prioritize essential expenses and identify areas where you can cut back without feeling like you’re missing out. For example, cooking at home more often or canceling unused subscriptions can free up funds for your house savings.
Automate your savings.
Automate your savings by setting up monthly recurring transfers from your checking account to your savings account. Treat your savings like a regular bill payment. This way, you are putting money away without having to think about it.
Have frugal fun.
You can still have fun without spending a ton of money. Look for budget-friendly activities and hobbies. Explore free events in your neighborhood or city, enjoy nature walks, host potluck dinners with friends, or have movie nights at home.
Increase your income.
If you increase your income, you can boost your savings while still enjoying life. This could be through side hustles, freelancing, or asking for a raise at your job. Even a small increase in your monthly income can help to increase your savings over time.
Allocate extra money to savings.
Whenever you receive extra money, such as tax refunds, bonuses, or gifts, allocate a portion (or all) to your house savings.
Pay off debt.
If you have high-interest debt, such as high credit card balances, paying it down should be a priority. High-interest debt can make it harder to save. Consider consolidating or refinancing debt to lower your interest rates and free up more money for your house fun.
Reward yourself.
Work hard, play hard. Set milestones within your savings goal and reward yourself when you hit them. These rewards don’t have to be extravagant but should be something that you enjoy.
Stay focused on the big picture.
Keep your eye on the prize. Remind yourself of why you’re saving and visualize the life that you want to build. This can help you make short-term sacrifices without feeling deprived.
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