Get pre–qualified
-
Paying off debt vs. saving for a down payment
Talk to an Affinity Loan Officer about your options:
If you have a high amount of debt, start with the highest credit card debt first. Pay as much as you can on it and make the minimum payments on any other cards. Do the same for each card until you feel more financially comfortable.
If you have low–moderate debt, put aside more money for your down payment.
-
Set a Savings Goal
Define your savings goal
Give yourself some time to save the money
Work out how much money you want to set aside each month
-
Create a budget
Get organized
Understand your "necessities"
Think before spending
Design a spending plan and try to eliminate unnecessary spending
Revise your budget as your needs change
Keep your eye on the big picture!
Remind yourself–often–why you're saving
Get your whole family involved
Stick to your budget as much as possible
It's OK to splurge a little now and then
-
Helpful Resources
Online banking and bill payers
Affinity customers get free checking and online banking plus three months of bill payer for free when they open a checking account
Online calculators
Personal financial software or online financial planners
Register for a Money Management Class