Affordability. It’s a word that gets tossed around a lot when people talk about homeownership, but what does it really mean? Affordability is a term that’s both quantifiable (lending institutions use a formula) and a little bit subjective (lifestyle considerations factor in, too). With a little manipulation of your lifestyle considerations and the help of a Saskatoon Mortgage Associate, like myself, Scott Trainor; we can make that unaffordable home, very affordable. You don’t need to be a millionaire to afford your half a million-dollar house, in fact you only need at least 5% of that half million. Therefore, you just have to save up $25,000; a much more manageable number to obtain.
Here are some simple ways to get you to that down payment saved up and get into that dream house of yours.
1) Work Hard, Rack up accomplishments, ask for a raise
2) Earn second income with a side gig or freelance work
3) Start a budget. Use budgeting apps to stay on-track with your financial goals
4) Save on gas and parking by walking, cycling or taking public transit
5) Put your gym membership on hold and exercise outdoors during the warmer months
6) Cut your cable or satellite TV
7) Ask your mobile provider for a better deal. Ditch your landline
8) Pack your lunch
9) Drink office coffee, not coffee shop coffee
10) Eat out less. Eat at home more
11) Buy groceries with a list and don’t shop hungry
12) Get a roommate
13) Downsize to a smaller rental
14) Move in with your parents
15) Rent in a cheaper part of town
16) Sell some unused items online
17) Choose activites with your friends that don’t cost a lot (Walks, free events, volunteer together)
18) Less luxury vacations, more staycations
There are twenty-one simple ways you can make minor adjustments to your lifestyle choices and make that unaffordable house, affordable. Call me, Scott Trainor, Saskatoon's Mortgage Associate, when that piggy bank is full and we can discuss taking the next steps to getting you into that home you’ve always dreamed of.