BUDGETING TOWARDS HOMEOWNERSHIP

Transitioning from renter to homeowner is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make throughout your lifetime.

It can also be a stressful experience if you don’t plan ahead by building a budget and saving prior to embarking upon homeownership.

Budgeting is a core ingredient that helps alleviate the stress associated with money issues that can sometimes arise if you purchase a home without knowing all of the associated costs – including down payment, closing expenses, ongoing maintenance, taxes and utilities.

The trouble is, many first–time homeowners fail to carefully think about their finances, plan a budget or set savings aside.  And in this society of instant gratification, money problems can quickly escalate.

The key is to create a realistic budget based on your goals.  Track your spending and make your dollars go further by sticking to your budget once it’s in place.  Budgeting offers a step-by-step formula for figuring out how to best save your hard-earned money to invest in homeownership.

Start by listing your household income, then your household expenses, and review your spending habits.

Keeping receipts for everything that you purchase will enable you to accurately keep track of where your money is going each month so that you can review and make necessary changes to your plan on an ongoing basis.

Examine all areas of your life from entertainment to the type of food you buy, where you buy your food and clothes, and how and where you travel.  Also look at your spending personality and make necessary adjustments.  Are you a saver, a splurger, a spontaneous shopper or a hoarder?  Become smarter with your money and avoid impulse buying.

If you find you’re spending a lot of money in one area, such as entertainment for instance, set aside a reasonable amount each month and prepare to stop spending money in this area once your budget has been exhausted.