You've assessed your budget, changed your habits, and made spending cuts but you still need to reach your down payment faster. Consider these significant steps to help you get there.
- Take on a second part-time job. If your work schedule allows you to add a second job find a part-time option that will enable you to earn one or two thousand dollars more each month. If you are part of a couple, each partner can get a light part-time job without feeling overloaded. Bonus—occupying your time more does help lead to less spending and more saving! Tutor students, pet sit, or take a steady part-time gig!
- Move back home, move in with extended family, or get a roommate. If your family is on board with the changes you need to make to meet your financial goals, consider moving in with someone in your family to pay lower rent and save tens of thousands over one year. If family help isn't an option, consider getting a roommate or moving into a two-bedroom apartment and adding a roommate to lower your monthly rent.
- Review your belongings for big-ticket items you can sell. Do you live in an area with excellent public transportation? Consider selling your expensive, gas-guzzling car or getting out of your costly lease. Do either you or your spouse work at home, but you both own a car? See if you can help fund your savings by downsizing to one vehicle for the next year to save more.
- Sell unworn jewelry and have broken pieces melted down for cash.
- Skip vacations for a year, or even two! And during your vacation time, take on an extra job so when you head back to work you’ve earned a bit chunk to add to your savings kitty.
- If your owning a home in the near future is a top priority, take a break from your retirement fund at work and redirect those funds into your savings account. (Only take this step if you are completely committed to reaching your down payment goal within a year or two at most since you lose the value of compounding those funds toward your retirement for the life of the account.
- Direct all your tax refund and any annual bonuses into your savings!
Remember, this isn’t a forever deal. You’re not signing on for an austere life ongoing. It’s just temporary to reach a goal. Your real estate professional can help you get started by determining how much you need to set aside for your down payment.
About the Author
Sheida Rezazadeh
Our Mission Statement:
Our philosophy is simple: clients come first. We pledge to be in constant communication with our clients, keeping them fully informed throughout the entire buying or selling process. We believe that if you’re not left with an amazing experience, we haven’t done our job. We don’t measure success through achievements or awards, but through the satisfaction of our clients.
About Me:
With over two decades of experience in the real estate industry, I derive immense satisfaction from assisting clients in realizing their real estate aspirations. My journey in this field commenced with personal investments and the management of multiple properties, providing invaluable insights into the dynamics of the real estate market. Over the years, I have refined my negotiation skills, accumulating extensive knowledge and experience that empower me to deliver exceptional service to my clients.
As a seasoned professional, I specialize in residential, luxury, multi-unit, and commercial real estate. I possess the acumen to secure top dollar for sellers and the best possible prices for buyers. Recognizing the significance of creating a home sanctuary as a mother and wife, I understand the security that real estate investments can bring. It's not just a transaction; it's a life-changing experience, and I am dedicated to guiding my clients through every step of the process.
Leading a team of highly-seasoned real estate professionals, we are committed to providing personalized service. We take immense pride in building enduring relationships with our clients and tirelessly work on their behalf to help them achieve their real estate goals. Our team comprises the best and brightest in the industry, consistently striving to lead in research, innovation, and consumer education.
As a trusted resource in the complex world of real estate, I am devoted to providing the best and most timely information to my clients. My team and I stay up-to-date with the latest trends and developments in the industry, utilizing this knowledge to help our clients make informed decisions. It's not just about buying or selling a home; it's about building a better future for you and your family, and I am honored to be a part of that journey.