Money, Money, Money (Part 2)

Even though all of our debts are paid, the hubs and I are still trying to cut corners and save as much as we can to buy our first home. Did you know you are charged mortgage insurance if you don't put 20% down on your home loan? That adds up to a lot of cash that is WASTED. Who wants to throw money away? #NotMe. So, we're still singing to ABBA. If you missed Money (Part 1), click here.

6. Sell, sell, sell. Craigslist and Ebay are wonderful. What can you get rid of? Maybe an old DVD player, that extra vacuum, or some old wall art? Old jewelry? You can also try selling your housing contract on Craigslist. That was one of the best sales I ever made!

7. Look for new jobs. I don't know how much money you make, but if it's not enough put in the time and apply to new jobs. It took me a year of steadily applying before I found one that was a better fit for me. Don't give up!

8. Bring your lunch to work. The average cost of going out for lunch is between $8-10. Multiply that by 5 days per week and you have a hefty expense. I typically bring my lunch, either a frozen SmartOnes entree which runs about $2, or I'll make a sandwich. 

9. Go thrift shopping. Do you need a new appliance or want a new shirt? Before you go to a "regular" store, try Goodwill or a second-hand shop. It can be daunting to sift through the junk, but when you find something worth-while it's a great feeling.

10. Drink water. Stop buying soda. Stop buying Starbucks. Stop buying alcohol. The cost adds up fast and it's not good for you. Let this habit die now! Every time you have an urge to buy a specialty drink put that money in your piggy bank.

Bonus: Use coupons and shop the sales. The website and app Retail-Me-Not is a great one to look for deals. Also, pay attention to the weekly sales at grocery stores- shop the sales and freeze foods for convenience. And when you're at the register, it doesn't hurt to ask if they know of any coupon codes you can use. Shopping online can save money, too. Look at Amazon, Ebay, and Craigslist for things you need.