AEM Mortgage Minute with Deanna Daughhetee

A Holiday Budget to Celebrate
Friday, December 4, 2009
If you’re like the rest of us, you are probably wondering how the holidays rolled around again so quickly. You may even still have lingering holiday bills from last year you are wondering how you are going to pay off.

This year, eliminate the financial stress of the holidays and celebrate within a budget. Here are a few tips on how to stay within a budget this season:

  • Develop a Spending Plan: Plan in advance how much you are going to spend on each of your gift recipients and stick to your plan! If possible, try to shop in advance to not only beat the crowds, but also to keep from having to overspend on last-minute gifts.
  • Track all of your Expenses: Keep track of your purchases. During the holidays these can really add up quickly especially when you are traveling or entertaining.
  • Entertain Inexpensively: Visit restaurants or venues that offer special promotions during the winter months. To increase your savings and enjoyment even more, swap entertainment coupons with friends and family.
It’s easy to get wrapped up in the hustle and bustle of the holidays and spend more than we intend on. At the same time, it’s comforting to know there are ways to prevent over-spending this season by simply planning ahead.