Home appliances

Choosing Appliances: Kitchen (Part 2)

Welcome to the second installment of our Choosing Appliances mini-series! In this series, we’ll be doing our best to help you through the sometimes-stressful research process for purchasing a new appliance. While appliances are not quite the sticker shock of a home or a car, they still are big financial investment. This mini-series will hopefully help you cut time and worry on your choice.

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In part two, we’re covering ranges and microwaves. If you missed our previous installment, check it out for this same experience on refrigerators and dishwashers.

Let’s get into it!

Appliance Logistics:

Before you go to the store or start to search online there are some things we can narrow down and think through:

  • Measure the area the appliance will fit in (height, width, and depth)
  • Note unique factors (for ranges: be sure you can open your oven door fully without hitting anything in your kitchen. It’s also important to note the space needed between your kitchen hood or ventilation system. Also note what kind of prong your oven has.)
  • Make a purchase plan
    • What’s your budget range?
    • Are you going to purchase during a sale?  (most big box stores have Memorial Day and Labor Day sales)
  • Will you need delivery? If so, consider cost. Or do you have a truck/trailer?
  • Will the appliance fit in your doorways? Will you have to take it up stairs?
  • What will you do with your old appliance? You can haul it away, have a company take it or sell it.

An important note is to check availability. More recently what’s in stock is more prevalent to your purchase. If you’re casually looking you may not mind a three-month backorder. However, if you needed it yesterday, going into a store and asking about what they’ve got in store is a good place to start. That way you don’t get attached to something that isn’t available or won’t be for a while.

a range in a manufactured home kitchen

Range Specifics:

Ranges really are the heart of the kitchen. Even ancient cooking spaces had a cold underground place for refrigeration and a hot fire, maybe with stones or iron ore to cook on. Ranges are fundamental to cooking throughout humanity, and nowadays we’re spoiled as to all the ways we can cook our food.

We use oven and range pretty interchangeably in the south, so I actually have to keep myself in line to say range which includes both oven and stovetop. Today, it’s less likely that they’d be separate, but it’s not unheard of. If you have an older home or are interested in a retro feel you might have an eye level or wall oven with either no stovetop or just a separate stovetop. You may also live in a small space and have a portable, single burner. But for our purposes, we’ll zero in on ranges including both parts!

Most ranges fall between $550 – 2,000, but you can definitely spend above that. Now it’s time to look around and get an idea of what’s available.

There are 3 main types of ranges:

  • Electric
  • Induction (runs on electricity)
  • Gas

Seemingly the more common is the electric range. Which usually has burners/ heating elements that are coils on top of the stove top or underneath a glass or ceramic top. These work by heating the metal coil, which heats the surface, then heats your pan. These tend to be the most affordable.

Induction stovetops are traditionally more expensive. They are electric but use heat and energy through a magnetic current. Induction stovetops heat copper coils and that directly heats your pan. So, this option kind has no middleman because it doesn’t have the extra step of heating your stovetop surface. These tend to offer a quicker heat than electric ovens and are typically more energy efficient.

Gas stoves run off your natural gas or propane hookup instead of electricity. This option has long been loved for its efficiency and quicker cooking. However, some are uneasy about the safety of it. For people that want to cook over an open flame and don’t mind spending a little extra, this is the perfect fit.

Within these choices there are conventional ovens and convention ovens. Essentially, conventional ovens have a heating element at the top and bottom of the oven, versus a convection oven has both heating elements plus a fan to distribute the hot air. Convection ovens are known to have more of an advantage with allover heat and higher heat. A conventional oven may be easier to navigate in your everyday as it will follow most recipes’ cook times and temps where a convection oven will require some adjustment.

Now, you’re ready to start looking for yourself. Don’t forget to decide on the color you want and to keep an eye out for any small, unique details you like that you see available for ranges. Be sure if you choose an electric option that you have the proper prongs to fit in your outlet. Happy shopping!

microwave

Microwave Specifics:

Microwaves are sort of like dishwashers in that not everyone views them as a necessity. Some people would prefer to heat things up in a toaster oven or stove top. However, if you eat a lot of leftovers then it may be a good fit. They also can be rather inexpensive. $300 is about the average for a good one, but you can find an inexpensive one around $60, depending on your budget.

Now it’s time to look around and get an idea of what’s available.

There are two main types:

  • Countertop
  • Over-the-range

Countertop microwaves are common but the drawback is that they do take up counter space. In a kitchen with limited counterspace, you might want to consider an over-the-range style. These microwaves are a sleek, tucked away option. Other options are built-in and convection microwaves, plus microwave drawers and wall oven combinations. If you’re wanting to spend a little more and need to save space, any of these could be a good fit.

There are tons of features such as ENERGY STAR® Certified and smart technology options for microwaves. They are always a great way to incorporate a pop of color as they tend to have more color and style options than most appliances.

This one is pretty simple so you’re ready to jump in on your microwave search. Need some help picking out the right one? Check out this guide to get you started.

We hope that this has helped you be an informed shopper, but most importantly we hope that it’s reduced the stress of the unknown and prepared you for some of the options you’ll have to decide on. While today we discussed purchasing new appliances, know that there are used options as well. You can go to a local wholesale or resale store. Don’t forget yard sales, too! For online options you can try a local selling site or something similar. Stay tuned to our mini-series! Next time we’ll cover laundry room appliances!

*ENERGY STAR® and the ENERGY STAR® mark are registered trademarks owned by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.  


4 Reasons To Buy a Manufactured Home

Manufactured Homes, the Next Big Thing in a Housing Crisis?

Buying a home can be expensive, especially with the current market. Many people are experiencing challenges stemming from the shortage of affordable housing in their community.  An October 2021 Pew Research Center® survey revealed that 49 percent of Americans would describe the lack of affordable housing as a “major problem where they live.”   In the same survey, 70 percent of Americans believed that “young adults have a harder time buying a home than their parents’ generation did.”*

Let’s check out 4 reasons why you might want to consider purchasing a manufactured home:

  1. Affordability (in changing markets, too)

It’s no secret that housing prices have risen over the last few years. The median sales price of new houses sold in January 2023 was $426,500 (with the average sales price even higher at $479,800). The average sales price of a manufactured home in October 2022 was $160,400 for a double wide, and $81,400 (under “average sale price” data piece) for a single wide. That’s a significant difference in prices! Other options, such as renting, are also available, but renting may not be ideal if you are ready to put your roots down.*  

  1. Potential Equity

One of the biggest drawbacks to renting is that you do not have the potential to build equity in the home. A manufactured home, however, can potentially be a good investment, particularly if the home is permanently affixed to land. When renting, the monthly rental payment becomes a permanent monthly expense as long as you rent. A mortgage, however, has an end date. If it is within your budget, you can also make extra principal payments toward paying off your mortgage loan ahead of schedule to eliminate having a monthly mortgage payment even sooner. I don’t know about you, but my mortgage is my biggest expense each month.

woman sitting inside a home with golden retriever
  1. You’ll have a home for your pets

If you are an animal person like I am, remember that your home is your pet’s home, too! Owning a home means you have more freedom with how many pets you can have.  It is not uncommon for rental agreements to either limit the number of pets you may have or exclude them altogether in your rental home. And even if pets are permitted, rental agreements may still limit the breed, size, or weight of certain animals.

When looking to move to Tennessee, it was hard to find a rental property that would permit my cuddly 84-pound Rottweiler-Lab mix, Sadie. We had difficulty finding rental space with a fenced yard or personal outdoor space. We ended up renting a space with a shared yard, so we felt we couldn’t let our dog out without a leash or closely attending her.  While this meant we would get to take fun trips to the dog park, unfortunately it also meant we had to stand in the cold rain for bathroom breaks. We were also perpetually worried the owners would one day decide they didn’t want to rent to pet owners. Now, since purchasing our own home, Sadie has a nice fenced-in yard.

  1. Freedom to make it your own

Rentals can also limit your ability to make your home feel like your own. Rentals may deter you from putting holes in the walls for hanging pictures, updating or remodeling, even painting sometimes. Homeownership offers all those freedoms. The sky is the limit for what weekend project you’ll find yourself getting into, whether it is a bathroom remodel or planting a garden. Plus, what’s the point of watching all those home improvement shows if you can’t utilize your inspiration from them?

All things considered, buying a home can still be expensive, especially if you’re unsure what to look for. So, are you thinking about a manufactured home? They are more popular now than ever, and for a great reason. They provide many of the same features you may be looking for in a site-built home, but they are available at a more attainable price point! Just imagine, sitting on your front porch sipping your sweet tea or coffee as you relax in your rocking chair, enjoying your own home for less than you even expected.

*Updated by Kayla Perez

Tips for Buying Pre-owned

Home appliances

Choosing Appliances: Kitchen (Part 1)

Welcome to our Choosing Appliances mini-series! In this series, we’ll be doing our best to help you through the sometimes-stressful research process for purchasing a new appliance. While appliances are not quite the sticker shock of a home or a car, they still are big financial investment. This mini-series will hopefully help you cut time and worry on your choice.

….

We’re starting in the kitchen where the bulk of our appliances live. We’re breaking it into two sections. In part 1, we’re covering refrigerators and dishwashers, so let’s jump in!

Most people don’t have to buy appliances when moving into a home. So, it’s likely that you could go a while without having to purchase any. When looking at refrigerators and dishwashers you’re looking at something that starts at about $500 each. So, you’re probably going to want to make an informed decision spending that amount. That’s why we’re here to help!

Appliance Logistics:

Before you go to the store or start to search online there are some things we can narrow down and think through.

  • Measure the area the appliance will fit in (height, width, and depth)
  • Note unique factors (for refrigerators: if your fridge will be put into a wall pocket, you’ll want to make sure it sticks out enough (depth) for you to open your doors easily/fully.)
  • Make a purchase plan
    • What’s your budget range?
    • Are you going to purchase during a sale?  (most big box stores have Memorial Day and Labor Day sales)
  • Will you need delivery? If so, consider cost. Or do you have a truck/trailer?
  • Will the appliance fit in your doorways? Will you have to take it up stairs?
  • What will you do with your old appliance?

An important note is to check availability. More recently what’s in stock is more prevalent to your purchase. If you’re casually looking you may not mind a three-month backorder. However, if you needed it yesterday going into a store and asking about what they’ve got in store is a good place to start. That way you don’t get attached to something that isn’t available or won’t be for a while.

Couple looking at appliances, specifically a fridge

Refrigerator Specifics:

See what’s available – now it’s time to look around and get an idea of what’s available.

There are many types of refrigerators, keep in mind different styles will cost more than others. 

Types:

  • Top Freezer (more affordable option, usually ranges $600 – 1,000)
  • Bottom Freezer
  • French Door (can be more expensive)
  • Side by Side
  • Quad Door (most expensive)
  • Undercounter (more specific uses, less popular traditionally)

Think of style/ color. Most options are black, white, or stainless steel. You may be able to get another color or a custom color, but it will probably cost a little more.

Now you’re ready to start shopping! You’ve got all the particulars thought through so you can shop in confidence. There are tons of in-depth guides for the best refrigerators of the year. So, search for a few of those and compare with your preferences and budget to find the best option for you.

person reaching into dishwasher

Dishwasher Specifics:

Not everyone places necessity on dishwashers. Many people live without them for some time or their whole life. Likely, if you already have a spot and hook up for one, you’ll continue to use one, but if you don’t you won’t – so you decide what fits best for you. 

See what’s available – now it’s time to look around and get an idea of what’s available.

ENERGY STAR® Certified. Nowadays there are tons of dishwashers that use less water or conserve it in some way. If this is something you’re interested in for your home keep a look out for certified dishwashers that can save you some energy.

Think of style/ color. Most options are black, white, or stainless steel. You may be able to get another color or a custom color, but it will probably cost a little more.

Number of racks. Some people want two rows while others want three. This is really the biggest variant for dishwashers. They don’t have all the type options like refrigerators.

Are you ready to start shopping and figuring out if you want more tech and less noise on your new dishwasher? Check out some of these dishwasher options to help you get started in your informed search!

We hope that this has helped you be an informed shopper, but most importantly that it’s reduced the unknown and prepared you for some of the options you’ll have to decide on. We hope that you’re entering this purchase a little less stressed.

We went through options that were new, but there are used options as well. You can go to a local wholesale or resale store. For online options you can try a local selling site or something similar. Stay tuned to our miniseries! Next time we’re covering ranges and microwaves!

Check Out Part 2!

*ENERGY STAR® and the ENERGY STAR® mark are registered trademarks owned by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.  

Couple is standing together in their kitchen with cups of coffee.

Downsizing in a Mobile Home: Upsize Your Life

Does the idea of downsizing come across your mind often? There are many great reasons to downsize in a mobile home. You could be in season where your expenses may be difficult to manage, and you’re seeking a financial breakthrough with this affordable housing option. Or you may want a smaller, better organized layout in your home to inspire less clutter. Perhaps you are wanting a one level home for safety or mobility reasons- a manufactured home could be a perfect fit. So for whatever your reasoning may be downsizing doesn’t just mean less space – it often means less stuff/clutter and more living.  

Why Downsize in a Mobile Home?

  • Affordable housing can benefit new homeowners. For those ready to retire to anyone prepared to have extra funds in the bank – everyone wins!  
  • Lower your daily expenses to save money for more options to be applied elsewhere.
  • You can have the freedom to move your home where it best suits you, whether in a community or on private land.
  • Customization! Mobile homes come in a variety of sizes and many have more square footage for less than their site-built counterpart. But part of their versatility means you have a 5 bedroom or a small 2 bedroom, sometimes even 1 bedroom home.
  • Open layouts – most mobile homes are super open which inspires a tidier space, and less clutter.

Transitioning into a mobile home will can mean square footage (if you’re downsizing) but will help you keep the house clean and will be easier to maintain. If this is your first time moving into a mobile home, check out more helpful tips here!

Gray mobile home in a park.

Interested in a Mobile Home Park?

If you decide to move to a mobile home park community, the atmosphere and amenities can fit your needs. It could help lower your bills and help you to become a stress-free homeowner. 

Benefits

  • Safe communities include background checks and safety protocols in their community.
  • Community Perks and Amenities include a pool, fitness center, and community events.
  • Minimal Maintenance, whereas parks tend to hire professionals to keep the property maintainable. 

Lot rent may vary depending on what community you select and with other common homeowner fees.

Let this help outline your journey in downsizing. There is plenty of consideration to do and discover if downsizing in a mobile home applies to you. If you are tired of living in the city, this is your sign! If you are still trying to decide, see more information about owning a mobile home here!

Things to Consider When Buying a Used Mobile Home

Many people shy away from buying used homes in general. They are intimidated by the work that could potentially go into fixing up a home or living in a place that may have exceeded its warranty. These are valid hesitancies, however buying used also opens the door to many positive possibilities. We’re going to explore a little bit about what it means to buy a used mobile home. It may be more of an exciting journey than you were expecting!

You can make it all your own – Personalization is such an important factor in homeownership. It really is true in the world of manufactured homes today that you can create the home you want. Mobile homes are versatile in more ways than one. If you purchase a fixer upper, you can start from scratch essentially and make the home into a place of your dreams.

Check the data plate – All mobile homes have a data plate located within their interiors. It’s usually under the kitchen sink, in the master bedroom closet, or utility room electrical panel.
You want to check this out in any home you consider. It tells you information about how the home was manufactured, including important information like the wind zone, roof load, and other items you need to know as a buyer.

Enjoy your dream location – Mobile homes are after all – mobile. If you don’t want to be confined by what’s already been built or a specific location, then this may be a good option. As long as the home’s condition does not prevent relocation and relocating the home will satisfy local requirements, you could place your home by a lake, in a holler on the mountains, and anywhere in-between. Many people also like the ability to place a home on family land. You should be aware that moving a mobile home could be costly – local movers in your area should be able to provide estimates.

Beautiful kitchen in a manufactured home

Set up and delivery – You want to be sure to find out what the seller offers, if anything, in the way of set up and delivery. Sometimes it’s included in the cost and sometimes it’s separate. It’s also important to use a reputable professional mover. Do your research, especially if you choose your own.

Price difference/ fit your budget – There’s no doubt one of the perks of mobile homes is the price. They typically cost less than site-built homes per square foot, especially when used. They won’t hit your wallet quite as hard, and instead of always resorting to renting – they offer the ability to own a home and stay in budget.

Less money to fix up/ maintain – Since mobile homes are manufactured that means usually that they are built with more economical materials, meaning that they may be less expensive to repair or maintain. This will all depend on your specific model, but will usually ring true.

Rental power – You might be considering a mobile home as secondary housing or as an investment opportunity. In this case you could purchase a mobile home to rent out to friends or tenants.

Check Out First-time Home Buyer Tips!

A used mobile home may be the choice for you or it may not be, but it’s always smart to evaluate all your options when purchasing.

 

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Advice from Homeowners to Potential Homebuyers

When we asked some homeowners what they wish they’d known before they purchased a home, we found a theme: researching and understanding the responsibility behind owning a home. Get started with the advice below –

With the internet providing unlimited resources – we have the opportunity to be very informed buyers. However, that also means we might get some bad or inaccurate advice. Therefore, it is wise to be thorough in conducting your research. Ask parents and peers and don’t be shy in calling mortgage companies and asking questions.

Also, it’s good to be prepared for the pitfalls of owning a home. Repairs and updates to a home shouldn’t deter you from owning a home, but you need to have an idea of the cost and time you’ll be spending to keep your home in good shape.

Check out mobile home options!

Manufactured home with steps leading to the front door.

Research:

General –

  • Read blogs, check Pinterest and Google
  • Research the builder of the home you want to purchase. Read reviews. Check into negative reviews if there are any. Compare them to other builders.
  • If safety is a priority to you, check crime rates in the area you would like to live in.
  • If you have kids – look into the school districts and what they offer.

Home Specific –

  • Ask if the title is clear.
  • See if an escrow account for payment of taxes and insurance is available or required through your lender.
  • Check into interest rates and compare them, also see if it’s a fixed rate that will not change during the term of the mortgage.
  • Find out what the estimated annual homeowner’s insurance and property tax payments will be.
  • Look into the history of home and lot in the public land records.

Responsibilities:

Think you’re ready to make a home purchase? Dig into these first-time homebuyer resources as a next step! Have your own homeowner advice? Interested in something specific? Email us your input at facebook@vmf.com!

Understanding How Your Credit Can Be Good News for Your Interest Rate

So you’re taking on a mortgage, or considering it – congratulations! Also, good job. Educating yourself in financial matters is super smart (though seriously daunting and intimidating sometimes). When it comes to interest rates, it can be easy to dismiss the steps you can take to try and get better rates. However, there are many things you can do before even applying for a mortgage to improve your ability to get a lower interest rate.

It begins with keeping the following in good standing: credit, debt, savings, income, and other assets.

Having a low interest rate is likely going to be important to you in the long run. While a high interest rate may be easy to overlook when purchasing a home, you may feel the financial impact of a higher rate down the road. A higher interest rate will result in you paying more over the lifetime of your mortgage2.

Good credit can result in lower interest rates when you go to purchase a mobile home2. Many people don’t realize how important it is to keep your credit score up or to work on getting into a good credit score range.

When applying for a mortgage or preapproval, it’s also a good idea to keep an eye on your credit report and to promptly correct errors1. You should avoid doing anything that may negatively impact your credit throughout the process of purchasing a mobile home; this includes applying for new, additional lines of credit1.

While your credit score isn’t the only key to a low interest rate, it is one of the key factors2. Your credit report is the main record lenders have of how you spend money. It tells them whether you pay on time, if you pay what is owed, and how consistent you are. It’s riskier for them to lend when your credit score is low in terms of your perceived ability to make payments. It’s similar to a school giving a better scholarship based on grades. While it’s not always fair to those who really have to work for a high grade versus those who are naturally good test takers – both got the same grade. The same is true with credit. If your credit has seen better days, you can improve it with hard work.

Another key factor is your debt1.  A lot of debt may deter a lender from lending to you, or may negatively impact the terms of the loan. Lenders calculate your debt to income ratio, so you definitely want to pay off as much debt as you can before applying for a home loan. Many people only see their home as an investment and not as debt, which it is. A mortgage is probably the biggest loan you will have in your life. Owning a home can be rewarding, but it is also a big responsibility. The best thing to do is either consolidate or pay off debts that you can, or at least have proof that you can consistently pay towards your debt while also making your mortgage payments.

Your savings and income may also impact your interest rate and the terms of our loan.  Starting to save is obviously amazing when considering a mortgage. It also can look good when your interest rate is being decided. Savings can demonstrate to a lender that you can pay your mortgage payments. This can also be shown if you have consistent income. Having a steady job or creating a savings budget could help you when trying for a better interest rate. Assets such as land, cash settlements, etc. could also positively impact that way that you appear to a lender.

Understanding your credit is the key to reaching for a better interest rate. Don’t just accept a high rate. You’ll pay for it later. Do what you can to make your credit shine!

Start Improving Your Credit Today!

  1. Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. 16 August 2018. How does my credit score affect my ability to get a mortgage loan? https://www.consumerfinance.gov/ask-cfpb/how-does-my-credit-score-affect-my-ability-to-get-a-mortgage-loan-en-319/

2. Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. 16 August 2018. Seven factors that determine your mortgage interest ratehttps://www.consumerfinance.gov/about-us/blog/7-factors-determine-your-mortgage-interest-rate/

First-Time Homebuyer Resources

So, you’re wanting a place to call your own? That’s exciting! Have you done your homework? It’s going to take some preparation and research to purchase a home. We want you to be well-informed and encourage you to be your own advocate while researching and making home purchase decisions.

We’ve gathered some resources and information about being a first-time homebuyer and have provided them below. While by no means all-inclusive, we’re  hoping these resources will help get you started!

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Homeownership is closer than you think. Get creative with your options!
  • You’re probably familiar with FHA Loans. Loans insured by the government, more specifically the Federal Housing Administration. FHA Loans generally require lower down payments but do require the payment of mortgage insurance premiums which protect the lender if a borrower defaults.
  • If you’re an active or previous member of the military, a VA Loan may be something to consider. Loans offered to credit qualifying veterans, or their surviving spouses if service and entitlement requirements are met. There is a VA loan no down payment option.
  • If you’re interested in living in a rural area as designed by the USDA Rural Guaranteed Housing Program: a USDA Home Loan may interest you. USDA loan programs are designed to improve and grow rural areas and you don’t have to have a farm.
  • If you’re interested in living in an energy efficient home, you might want to consider programs that finance energy saving home improvements as part of the mortgage. Some are offered to first-time homebuyers.
  • Lastly, check your local home loan options! Inquire with local lenders who know the area in which you would like to live for financing options. You might be able to find a local down payment assistance program, or other alternative program that fits your needs!

Consider a Mobile Home!

Still on the fence? Wondering what you’ll gain by being a homeowner? Check out these benefits of being a homeowner!

6 Questions to Ask Yourself When Saving for a Down Payment

Investing in a mortgage is a big step. It’s one of the biggest financial steps an individual will take in their lifetime. So it’s important to weigh it carefully. Don’t be discouraged by the size of the choice – instead be encouraged by the variety of resources you can tap into.

Down payments will vary among lenders and in amount, depending on the loan program, type of loan, home price, credit score and budget. Below we’ve crafted some questions that will help you evaluate and analyze your ability to save for a down payment.

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Be ready for your down payment by asking yourself these important questions.

  1. Is now the time for me to purchase a home? In a society that favors the word “now” over the word “later,” this question may seem silly. But it’s not. Purchasing a home means saving consistently, making payments, paying additional bills, maintenance responsibilities, and more. Check out listings near you and see what’s out there. If you aren’t in a place where you can save or you haven’t been saving. It may be time to wait. Be honest with where you’re at.

     2. What down payment can I afford? The possibility of purchasing a home is exciting. However, often our eyes are bigger than our wallets. It’s important to be practical. Consider how much you can pay out of pocket for a home. That may mean going with a cheaper home or being stricter with your spending.

     3. What monthly payment does my income allow? Simple. How much do you or your household make in a month? What will your house payment do to that number? If it doesn’t cover the cost now – it won’t later. Consider picking up odd jobs or making a bigger down payment, or trying the next question.

    4. What changes in spending do I need to make? Everyone needs to evaluate their spending before purchasing a home. Sometimes we need to prioritize the way we spend money. Leisure spending may not always be an option. If purchasing a home is a goal, consider how you can cut spending or alter your habits.

Get Savings Tips Now!

    5. What method will I use to save money? Automatic saving accounts are the most widely recommended method of saving. Usually free, they can be drafted from your pay without effort from you. Banks sometimes have programs for first time buyers or you could invest. You could even try putting a dollar or change in a jar or bucket every day and depositing it every so often.

     6. Do I need to ask for lower rates? If you’ve tried everything above and you still need some wiggle room – evaluate you bills. Are you paying high interest rates on credit cards? Has your car insurance been the same for a while? Consider calling and asking for lower rates. This could put more money in your pocket.

Congratulations, you’re doing your research and preparing well! Are you ready to start saving or do you need to work on one of these questions?

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