Photo Credit Kinga Howard
5)
Some affordable mortgage programs have a broad definition of “first-time homebuyers”. Federal Housing Administration (FHA) loans for first-time homebuyers are available to anyone who has not owed a primary residence for three years.
6)
I know it sounds strange, but a growing number of companies provide pet insurance as an employee benefit. This may be a more affordable option than purchasing it on your own, since employers typically get a group discount on benefits for their company/employees.
7)
Some banks and credit card issuers provide free tools that let you generate reports on personal spending. Running a report once or twice a year may surface insights into your biggest spending lifestyle categories and highlight areas where you might be able to cut back. Clearly this would be a boost to your financial lifestyle.
8)
Many employers have been rolling out new benefits for everything from creating a financial plan to paying down student loans. Check any offerings in your employee benefits manual or company portal.
9)
Getting a tax refund means you’ve let the government hold on to your money for free, some of it for more than a year. Better to withhold less, invest the extra cash that’s in your paycheck, and pay a small amount come tax-filing season. (Not giving specific tax advice, suggesting this as a consideration).
10) Online Discounts Are a Gold Mine
Have your computer search for savings to enhance your financial lifestyle. Free browser extensions such as PayPal Honey, Retail-MeNot, Deal Finder and Slick deals can find and apply coupon codes at checkout.
You will be pleased at how starting now with these above tools will really give that end-of-year holiday budget a nice boost.
As always, it’s my honor to send the Fete Lifestyle readers a few tips to enhance your financial lifestyle. Connect with me at;
[email protected] www.1stcig.com 312-952-8040/Cell * 312-836-3800/Direct Line.