Moving into a new home brings excitement and energy into our lives. Whether it’s your first apartment or that adorable starter home or the life long dream-come-true abode, the potential for new beginnings fills hearts with anticipation for the memories yet to be made and the establishment of new traditions. Even if you remember the last minute closing costs and borrowed boxes from your neighbor, there may be a few expenses you blanked on budgeting. Instead of beginning your new adventure with worry and overspending.
Curb Appeal
No one wants to feel like they live in someone else’s house. Set aside a few dollars to make some minor purchases to help bring your personality to your new home. There’s no need to buy the farm and re-landscape the entire property. In fact, it may be the best idea to wait six months to a year to know what plants are already there – including perennial flowers and bulbs that only bloom during specific seasons. Instead, budget around $20 for a new doormat and maybe a small potted plant. This amount will set a boundary to keep you from going overboard.
For more ideas: How to Save Money on Lawn Care
Light Bulbs
Rarely can you view a desired residence at nighttime. That means when you move in, you may realize things weren’t quite as bright as they once seemed during the midday hours. Don’t forget to plan to purchase extra light bulbs and maybe even a lamp or two. It’s a good idea to investigate whether or not your electric company provides complimentary energy audits. A qualified professional will come to your property to evaluate ways you can save money on your utility bills, many times bringing a box full of energy efficient light bulbs and other goodies for absolutely free. Log on to your light company’s website (here’s ours) to see if they offer such a service and you might not have to spend a single penny.
Check out: 7 Ways to Save Money On Your Energy Costs
Cleaning Supplies
Moving in and moving out can really kick up some dust. From that grimy spot behind the refrigerator to the muddy boot prints your best friend tracked in, you’ll want to be sure to allow a few extra dollars for the purchase of cleaning supplies. Especially if you’re looking to get back a deposit from your prior landlord, you’ll need to leave your former domicile spic and span. Rather than purchasing commercial cleaning products, stick with the basics your great grandmother probably used. White vinegar, baking soda, washing soda, and borax can clean nearly any surface and all will cost you much less per ounce than a high end flashy new to the market products. Reusable rags or even old towels and t-shirts make much more efficient scrubbing tools and cost less, too.
Read: 7 Frugal Cleaning Products You Need NOW
Meals For a Week
If you’ve ever moved or helped someone you love move, you know one thing for certain – moving works up a hefty appetite. With little time to pause and even less energy to prepare a seven-course meal, you will need quick prep meals that keep you full and out of the drive thru. Skip the chips and candy and buy whole fruits and vegetables. Drive right past the donuts and buy a box of oatmeal or cereal. Pass by the pizza and purchase quick sandwich ingredients that can be assembled quickly at any time during the day. By the way, if you know someone who is moving, the very best thing you could do to show how much you care is to show up with food. You may also want to invest in some disposable dishes and flatware just for a short period of time. You might not even be able to find that box of dishes for a few weeks.
Looking for some ideas? Read ALDI Meal Plan: 7 Simple Meals for $50 or $50 ALDI Back to School Meal Plan.
Minor Furnishings
Moving into a new space may make you want to rush out and buy new furniture and wall hangings galore. Before you get too overzealous, press pause on your inner designer. Try not to purchase any new furnishings for at least six months so you have time to evaluate what you really need and what you’d like to have, too. However, you may still need to set aside a small amount – no more than $100 – for trash cans, minor window coverings, and other necessities for your new home. When you do need to make a purchase, be sure to look for coupons and/or use a cash back site when shopping online. I love the $10/$10 JC Penney and Kohl’s coupons for purchases like these.
To Save Even More on These Purchases: Why You Keep Wasting Money Online
While certainly a lot of work, there’s no reason why you can’t keep moving a joyous occasion. Save money where you can, so you can spend on the updates that matter most to you. Careful planning is always worthwhile and keeps you and your budget from getting caught off guard.
My book is now available: Slaying the Debt Dragon: How One Family Conquered Their Money Monster and Found an Inspired Happily Ever After. You can also check out The Debt Free Devotional
This post contains an affiliate link. That means when you get a great deal or maybe even something for free, you also help our family pay off our mortgage early. And for that, we royally thank you!
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