Mary Cornazter has a great article about being FRUGAL in Sunday March 15, 2009 News & Observer. Yes, FRUGAL, that horrible word, which instantly makes you feel, deprived, but the couple she interviewed still manages to "have a life". Frugal is no longer described only you grandma. Frugal is being reborn into a positive trait & that frivolous charge it attitude may be dying a well deserved death.
Staying home for movie night or watching the game from home, can be tough when it is replacing that new martini bar or season box tickets. But it has become a must for many in the current economy. A new culture emerging is proud of the great buys at Costco, Sam's and Thrift Stores. The toughest part is patience - for so long it was acceptable to want it & have it. But the press, the mortgage market and the constant talk of bailout has proven that a frivolous attitude is a fast track to the poor house.
Luckily we live in NC - where museums are free, and there are tons of free or cheap things to do
Don't be shocked- buying a home could reduce your household budget! Consider It!!
Recently I helped a first time home buyer purchase a foreclosure. The home needed some work but the payment was right. He did not have to sacrifice his core needs; I was still able to find him a home built after 2000, with a large lot & over 1400 square feet. He was able to see past a filthy kitchen, nasty carpet & lack of refrigerator. After a good scrub, he knew he would have plenty of space to watch the game & his dogs would have a big back yard. His willingness to look past the cosmetics & more importantly to buy in an area that offers 100% USDA financing was a smart move. He reduced his housing expense by over $250 a month (Mortgage VS Rent)
The $8000 first time home buyers tax credit & falling home prices are giving buyers something to cheer about. Neighborhoods that were previously too expensive are now attainable. Sellers are now willing to pay some of the closing costs. Communities offering gyms, pools, and activities have created tremendous opportunities for buyers to save even more. This New Frugal Buyer is seeking in a price range they want even if they qualify for more - or they are basing their purchase price on ONE income. The New Frugal Buyer is smart and planning ahead. You can be frugal and still have what you want!!
There is opportunity to look past the panic -- Find a Realtor that will work with in YOUR budget.
Jennifer Marks, Real Living Realty Experts -- Jennifer.Marks@RealLving.com
Cell 919-210-6295 Or Office 919-387-4100
Jennifer Marks
