First time loans can be a stressful, daunting experience for anyone. Statista states that 65.8% of homeowners live within the homes that they own. That is good news for you because it gives you a goal to reach for. You can personally help raise this percentage up a few points for this year. And while doing that, you can acquire a new home for yourself through a loan.

Being financially stable before you approach a lender can make a dramatic difference when they make their decision on your application. It will also benefit you because you will be much more stable going into the contract. Having a decent income helps you get started with the process, and it helps you make the payments.

You may think that you are set to move forward with a loan. Think again. You need to have a good nest egg built up before you move on to buying a home. There are some straightforward ways to plan for a loan.

1. Goals-Setting some clear goals will help you out overall. Many first-time buyers are not aware of all the extra fees that they will be required to pay. Closing costs are tacked on when the buying of the house goes through. It can be a substantial amount for which you are not prepared. Most lenders will also require you to have a substantial down payment. Do not forget about moving expenses, utility hook-ups, and other small expenses that will add up. Put the numbers down on a piece of paper so they are visually available. Set them as solid goals that you need to reach before applying for new home loan rates.
2. Automate Savings-Having a saving account is an aspect of financial planning that needs to be included in everyone’s budget. Not just for those of you that are getting a home loan. Set up your account to automatically pull from your checks. You want to have enough pulled out to build up to your goals, without causing you to go bankrupt.
3. Bonuses/Tips/Raises-Anything beyond your basic wage should immediately be sent to your savings account. You were not counting on it anyway, so it will not be missed. The more money that you can squirrel away now, the sooner you will be able to move forward on your new home.
4. Extra Money-Find a side hustle to make some extra money. Get a part time job, along with your full time one. Sell items that you do not use. Stop paying on any subscriptions that you do not use. Delay that vacation that you were thinking about taking. Do you need to get a workout? Ride your bike instead of driving. You get the point. Any money that you can set aside you should do.
5. Living Arrangements-If you want to save up for your goals faster, consider changing the location that you hang your hat. Moving into a cheaper, smaller place will help you save up some extra money. It may cost a little up front to move, but in the end, it will pay off for your savings.

Financial planning starts with you. It also ends with you. You need to have the discipline to cut back on any extra spending. Your main goal is to get into your home. That starts with saving, and scraping, and setting your foot down with the others in your current location. Everyone needs to be on the same page. Keep your head up, move ahead towards your goals, and stay the course. You will reach your goals with time and effort.

Josh Atkinson

Problem solver. Incurable bacon specialist. Falls down a lot. Coffee maven. Communicator.