OPINION: Beat the festive spending spree and buy your dream home
December drains your savings, there’s no doubt about it. However, if you’re looking to buy a house, best you shape up and exercise some self-control.
If you’re serious about buying a house but struggling to make it happen, these simple tips may be of help.
GOOD NEWS: During December most buyers are on holiday, and by this time in the year, sellers are getting desperate. December is the month of low prices and good deals. Look out for sellers relocating for work; they may be starting their new job in January and cannot hang on any longer.
NO FEET IN THE OCEAN: If you’re serious about buying, forget about your two-week holiday at the coast. December is the most expensive time for travel, so plan your holiday out of season. Take your dog for a walk, go fishing, lounge around at the pool, or volunteer at a charity. Look for exciting day outings for the children. Most churches and scouts offer free holiday clubs.
AVOID SHOPPING MALLS: Don’t tempt yourself. No one can do this for you, and it takes much self-discipline. That belt may indeed look great with your new shoes, but small purchases add up and for the most part are unnecessary. Think up creative ways of putting together lovely and sentimental homemade gifts. And if you’re really good, you may be able to do a little spending when the January sales come round.
DON’T GO WILD: Plan ahead for your Christmas meal and New Year’s party. You don’t need to break the bank to have a good time. Don’t use credit cards or store cards to buy food, and get everyone to contribute a little.
VISUALISE: It may sound silly, but it works. Put together a dream board and source pictures that depict your dream home. Communicate your goal; tell your family and friends.
Wishing you a very merry new home in 2014 and here’s hoping you tell your landlord you are tired of paying his bond!
Adrienne Milner is the owner of Weltevreden Park-based real estate agents A. Milner Realty.
