Saving That Down Payment

So you want to buy a home.  The financial part can be overwhelming.  In fact, the planning for the purchase may need to happen years before you step over your first owned threshold. And saving that down payment is crucial.

But where do you start?

This may be the toughest part:  You need to spend less than you make.  One of the best motivators to limit discretionary spending can be the drive for home ownership.  There’s a target date and there’s a target amount.  Suddenly, water is being ordered in restaurants, weekend jaunts are cancelled, and friends who like to say “let’s go shopping” are being ignored.

There’s nothing wrong with what some call this short-term ‘sprint technique’ to saving.  Building a budget around the word ‘No’ is manageable for some.  For most people though, a longer term approach to successfully live below their means is recommended – and that’s about recognizing how day-to-day spending may be preventing longer term goals (like home ownership) from being realized.

Those who want to take control of their spending should consider tracking every penny – in and out – just to know where it’s all going.  You’re guaranteed to find some leaky categories, and it will help you create a realistic budget.  Make sure you allow for some Fun Money in your budget though, so you don’t feel like your life is on hold even while you are saving.

Setting up an automatic savings plan is another great way to save towards your down payment.  You won’t miss what you never see, so moving money automatically from your chequing account to your savings account every pay-day is a strategy that works.

If you have money saved in an RRSP look into the RRSP Home Buyers’ Plan.  You can withdraw up to $25,000 per person without penalty and pay it back over the coming 15 years.

Don’t be tempted to invest your down payment in mutual funds, stocks or bonds that all go up and down in value.  If your timeline is less than 5 years away, tuck your savings into a regular Tax Free Saving Account (in cash).  You don’t want to risk saved capital by having to cash-out investments during a market downturn.

Finally, make sure you funnel unexpected government cheques or refunds, birthday gifts, anniversary gifts, etc. to your down payment fund.  Every little bit helps!

Taking control of your spending today will not only help you save for your down payment.  It will set you on a path towards financial freedom.  And when should you start?  The best time to plant an oak tree is 50 years ago.  The second best time is today.

Take control of your finances today.

Request A Free Consultation