Are you feeling the pressure of wanting to buy your first home but think it's impossible with your current financial situation? You’re not alone! Many of us, especially in the last few years, have faced skyrocketing home prices and stagnant wages. Here at Kingdom 1st Realty, we understand these challenges and aim to provide hope. Today, I’ll share the exact steps my husband, John, and I took to save for our first home. We believe that with faith and discipline, you can do the same!
1. Pay Off Major Debts, Like Car Loans
One of the first things John and I did was pay off our cars completely. It wasn’t easy driving around in 12-year-old cars when we wanted something newer. But we realized that new vehicles are depreciating assets, and not having a car payment for seven years has been a huge relief! We prioritized long-term goals over instant gratification, trusting that by staying debt-free, we could save for the life God had in store for us.
Proverbs 22:7 reminds us, "The borrower is servant to the lender." Being free from debt gave us the peace of mind to pursue other financial goals.
2. Cut Unnecessary Subscriptions and Expenses
Next, we tackled our monthly subscriptions. We asked ourselves, "Do we really need a gym membership or multiple streaming services?" The answer was no. Instead, we started working out at home with YouTube workouts and focused on low-cost entertainment options that aligned with our values. Cutting down on subscriptions allowed us to redirect that money toward our savings.
3. Trim the Food Budget
Food costs can easily spiral out of control, especially with rising prices. Back when we were saving for our first home, we had to keep our food budget to $200/month. Shopping at Aldi and Walmart, we sought out affordable yet healthy options. Now, with a growing family, our Costco membership helps keep us within budget while providing for our household needs.
4. Reevaluate Non-Essential Spending
We took a close look at our non-essential expenses. Things like beauty products, brand-name clothes, and eating out were minimized. For example, I stopped coloring my hair in 2013 and embraced my natural look. Not only did I save money, but it was a liberating acceptance of who God made me to be. Similarly, we cut back on eating out and discovered the joy of cooking meals at home.
Keeping God at the Center of Our Financial Goals
Since buying our first home in 2018, we’ve continued these habits because they align with the values that God has placed in our hearts. Matthew 6:24 reminds us, "You cannot serve both God and money." When we focus on His kingdom and His purpose for our lives, how we spend our money becomes a reflection of that focus. By keeping our priorities in line with His will, we’ve been blessed with a life of peace and provision.
How Kingdom 1st Realty Can Help
If you’re struggling to save for a home, Kingdom 1st Realty is here to help. We know Indiana’s real estate market and have access to various first-time homebuyer programs. With our network of lenders and understanding of the local housing landscape, we’re confident that we can help you find the loan product that’s right for you.
Let’s connect today! Visit Kingdom 1st Realty and begin your journey toward homeownership with faith, hope, and practical wisdom.
