Research has shown time and again one of the greatest hurdles to

home buying is coming up with the, sometimes dreaded, down

payment. Here are a few softer practical strategies to help you clear

the hurdle and come up with the cash you need.

Saving isn’t all dollars and cents, it’s a little emotional. That’s why we

recommend finding a few visuals to remind you why you’re in the

saving game. They could be photos or a list of features of your dream

home. Whatever your focal point, we recommend storing it close to

your budget, wallet, or in the place you pay bills to remind you of what

you’re working for.

The biggest enemy of spending is the impulse buy. So, for purchases

over $25 exercise some self-discipline and give yourself 10-days to

decide, Is this purchase for a real need or a want?

Your mother was right, good things take time…and so do cheap

things. From coffee on the go to lavish meals out, most consumers are

paying quite a bit for convenience. Try to avoid your local convenience

stores and become friends with your kitchen to help your bottom line.

According to the National Soft Drink Association, the average

American Household spends about $850 annually on sweetened

drinks. In contrast, water costs just a penny per gallon. Do this and

you’ll start your life as a homeowner not only richer, but a bit healthier

too.

We scoured the net and all the experts agree, the only thing more

powerful than creating a budget is actually reading and tracking it. We

suggest you schedule some time with yourself every week to face the

truth about your spending habits and find new ways you can save.

Locate the excess in your budget and slash it. Trade the gym for home

workouts, expensive movie nights for checking out free videos from

the library, and keep an eye out at the end of each month for services

you aren’t using.

 2:21:53 PM Tuesday, December 06, 2011

LeaderOne Financial

Serving The Great States Of Texas & Louisiana

281-298-5322

Offices In The Woodlands Texas , Kingwood Texas , McAllen Texas , Laredo Texas and Offering Loans In Baton Rouge, Lafayette and Lake Charles Louisiana Area ..

Karl LeBlanc NMLS # 164664