Saving for a down payment can seem like a daunting, impossible task. This is especially true if you’re already tackling debt and a mountain of bills. However, there are ways to save up for your dream home and still make ends meet. Let’s break it down.
Where should you begin?
1. Calculate How Much to Save
· It’s impossible to save toward a goal that you’re unsure of.
· Before you plan out a budget, you have to decide how large of a down payment you want to make.
· This can, of course, be an estimated amount, but you want to make sure the number in your head and the number your finances reflect are similar.
· A 20% down payment may be the best option for some homebuyers.
· However, for other buyers looking to purchase their first home or who need more financial flexibility,
· a smaller percentage might be more attainable.
· There are a variety of loan options that require little-to-no down payment at all.
· AND DON’T FORGET: A down payment smaller than 20% will require Mortgage Insurance.
· Mortgage Insurance. allows more homebuyers the opportunity to purchase a home sooner than anticipated because it offsets the risk the lender would typically assume on a low down payment transaction.
· If you’re planning on putting down less than 20%, you will need to factor Mortgage Insurance. into your monthly payments.
· When you have a price range for your dream home and a (realistic) goal for your down payment, use a Mortgage Calculator to estimate what your monthly mortgage payment will be. Does that number work for you?
· You can find Mortgage Calculators online.
· If the number looks a little higher than you’re hoping for, it may be in your best interest to save toward a more significant down payment.
2. Determine Your Timeframe
· Depending on the size of your down payment, your annual savings goal will change.
· It’s also essential to plan for any situations that could cause you to be unable to save toward your down payment goal.
· Are you planning on getting married or having kids within this timeframe? What about potential medical costs?
· Planning for obstacles will help you determine a realistic amount to save each paycheck and give you peace of mind, as well.
· IMPORTANT TIP: Pay attention to interest rates within your savings timeframe as well. Study market trends. If interest rates are traditionally lower in the spring, you might want to push your savings timeline up to get the best rate.
3. Budget, Budget, Budget
· Now that you’ve determined a timeline and savings goal, it’s time to look at where this money will come from.
· If your savings goal is more ambitious than your current savings habits, something will need to change.
· Maybe it’s picking up a side job or cutting back on your weekend spending, make clear financial goals for each paycheck.
· Get creative when trimming your budget! It’s often the little costs that add up in the end, not the big purchases you planned on. Consider:
· Skipping the drive-thru and pack your lunch
· Making coffee at home
· Working a few extra hours instead of going home early
· Pull your money out of riskier investment vehicles such as stocks or investment trusts.
· For the time being, you may need to move your money to a traditional savings account separate from your regular accounts.
· Using your garage or a public park to work out or find a less expensive gym
4. Don’t Forget About Additional Costs
· Don’t let the price tag of a down payment cause you to overlook the smaller, but still important fees with purchasing a home. You may need to factor in:
· Appraisal and Inspection Fees
· Closing Costs
The most important thing to remember when saving is to stick to your goal no matter what. It will pay off in the end!