The costs that accompany setting up a home together can seem exhaustive. With a mortgage, utility bills, insurance, and the cost of vehicle maintenance and commuting to consider, it may often seem like you’re left with very little money to actually enjoy at the end of each month. Budgeting is a fantastic way of making sure that you have enough money to cover every eventuality, as well as leaving yourself a little for emergencies and fun.
When creating your budget, you must first consider the essentials – the items and bills that must be paid for each month. Creating a spreadsheet to detail all incomings and outgoings is absolutely vital to a successful budget, and will allow you to see where you’re going right and wrong. Always prioritize; it’s easy to argue in favor of a gym membership or nights out, but do you really need them? Keep this spreadsheet, and all of your accounts, current; this will enable you to monitor your living expenses carefully. Saving for emergencies is also a great idea. If you can afford to, set aside $100 or more a month that will be waiting in a savings account should you ever need it. Finally, get used to saying “no”, but make sure that you decide together, as a couple, where your priorities lie. Many arguments between newlyweds revolve around money, and it is so important to stay on the same page.
Be creative; be inspired
When it comes to seeking out budget alternatives, it can be hugely beneficial to get creative. There are budget ranges for most products these days, all of which offer a similar level of excellence to the more expensive items. It can also be fun to hunt out bargains; when you and your new spouse head to the nearest superstore, why not make a game of it and see who can save the most money? Couponing is another fantastic way to save a little cash, and it really is worthwhile hunting through free newspapers and leaflets to spot a saving or two.
As newlyweds, you’ll no doubt be looking to stamp your personalities on your marital home. Contrary to popular belief, interior design needn’t cost the earth, and there are some fantastic ways that you can be creative, and cost-effective, with your décor and furnishings. Upcycling is a fantastic way to make the most of your home on a budget, allowing you to refresh older items so that they look, and feel, new. Wooden shutters can easily be sanded and repainted, while furniture can be reupholstered and painted.
Shopping for second-hand goods can be great fun; imagining the stories behind furniture and accessories can be a great way to spend an afternoon, as well as saving you money. These inspirational budget ways of decorating your home will no doubt leave you with more free cash to spend on household bills and leisure pursuits.
Embarking on a new life together as husband and wife can be daunting, as well as exciting. However, with a sensible attitude, a comprehensive budget, and just a little imagination, it can be perfectly possible to create a comfortable and loving home that you and your spouse will enjoy for the rest of your lives.
