Buying a Home This Autumn? 4 Unconventional Ways to Save up for Your Down Payment

Autumn is a popular time for new home buyers to start looking for their first house or condo. But with that down payment looming, everybody could use a bit of help saving up to make that bulk payment a little less intimidating.

There are plenty of unconventional ways to save up that may seem small, but will quickly add up and put a dent into that down payment.

Create A High Interest Savings Account

Talk to the bank about creating a secondary savings account with a higher interest rate. These super savings accounts usually come with the caveat that no money can be removed for a designated period of time. Using this account for the down payment works in everybody’s favor because it guarantees those extra dollars cannot be used for any other purpose.

Discard One Guilty Pleasure

Enjoy Starbucks coffee? Grab a pint every happy hour? Choose one vice and put the amount that would be spent on it into a jar. Most people will be surprised on how much money they spend each month on one guilty pleasure that can easily be cut out of their life. Every perk that’s cut will increase the amount by a decent margin.

Put Away Any Bonus Money

Holiday bonuses from work, tax refunds, birthday or Christmas presents, income from side gigs, any and all extra dollars that come in from any source outside of the main paycheck should be considered ‘down payment dollars.’ Sure it’s tempting to use that nice bonus or tax refund on a weekend trip or a night out, but all extra income should be saved away for that initial down payment.

Bring On The Roommates

People who already own a home and are looking to relocate can take this unconventional approach. Decent housing is hard to find so anybody with an extra room can rent it out and put that money towards the new house. Having a roommate can be a pain, but it’s for a limited time and can add up quickly.

While saving for a down payment can be stressful, you don’t have to go through the process alone. I’d be happy to guide you and provide some helpful tips for how to make that down payment without breaking the bank. I’ve seen countless couples go through the same thing and my experience can make a world of difference for you.  Give me a call – J.P. Cook – 602-320-4253.

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19620 W Cambridge Avenue Buckeye, AZ 85396

$464,146

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,070 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6676071

Property Type Single Family Residence

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12528 W Marguerite Avenue Avondale, AZ 85323

$464,114

5 Beds

2 Baths

2,407 SqFt

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MLS # 6683503

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Discover the difference in this home and buying experience! Under construction Laredo design at Highland Ridge by Brookfield. 5 bedrooms! 7000 SQ FT Homesite, single story includes an open-concept floorplan boasting an inviting kitchen and bright great room that opens to the private, covered outdoor room, the two-car garage leads you into the drop zone. This home offers a fourth bedroom option in lieu of the flex space. $41,000 in upgrades. Special financing is offered. Alamar is a new kind of master-planned community in the West Valley spread over 1,150 acres in Avondale, just 18 miles from Downtown Phoenix.

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2720 W Cholla Street Apache Junction, AZ 85120

$464,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

1,548 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6669619

Property Type Single Family Residence

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Brand New Construction! 4 bedrooms with 2 full baths. Modern kitchen with island open to great room. Master walk in shower. Late May 2024 anticipated completion date. Still time to customize some finishes. Tile to be installed throughout entire home. Spray foam insulation in walls and ceiling adding to great energy efficiency in home. Great sized backyard and no HOA! Great location near freeways and shopping.

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20066 N Golden Barrel Drive Surprise, AZ 85374

$464,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,936 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6612237

Property Type Single Family Residence

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''Welcome to this meticulously maintained single-owner residence, boasting an expansive layout that exudes an airy ambiance. Featuring two generously sized bedrooms, this home offers an entertainer's delight with its seamless open concept design. The kitchen is adorned with stainless steel appliances, ample countertop space, and abundant cabinet storage, complemented by a formal dining area. Additionally, the generously proportioned office/den presents versatility, potentially serving as a third bedroom. Step outside to the inviting back patio, perfect for unwinding and savoring the serene beauty of Arizona winters. Completing this exceptional property is a spacious two-car garage, providing ample storage and convenience.''

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