Whether you’re a seasoned homeowner or a renter looking to buy your first place, one thing remains certain. Saving for a down payment can seem daunting. This is especially true in difficult economic times when the job outlook is uncertain at best. Contrary to popular belief, though, you don’t need to be making a small fortune at work to save up for a down payment. In fact, there are many simple ways to achieve your goals, just by being more aware of how you spend your money. Here are three simple tips to help you start saving up.

First and foremost, you should consider eating out less and thinking things through more. You may assume you spend about $10 at a mid-level restaurant if you eat out once a week, right? Try again, and this time add in costs of all appetizers, desserts and drinks you regularly order, as well. You’ll probably find yourself around $20 now. The tip has to be in there too, doesn’t it? The total can add up to $25 or $30 without you even realizing it. You could easily spend over $100, once you multiple that figure by how many times you eat out each month.

Instead, consider cooking your favorite dinners at home. Ask for ice water with your meal since it’s free, if you do eat out. Consider lowering the tip you give from 15% to 10%. It will sure add up toward your down payment, even though on smaller amounts, the difference isn’t that much.

Second, cut out paper towels usage. While it’s everyone’s favorite go-to to clean up a mess or wipe their hands, the cost of purchase adds up over time. When you can easily obtain rags that will do the same job for free, why not? Rags can be reused by simply washing them occasionally as well. A little thought goes a long way toward saving much for a down payment.

Third, cut out magazine subscriptions. You can usually find the same information online for free anyway. The same goes for movies. Stop going out and spending $30 between admission, popcorn and a drink. Consider a low monthly movie subscription mailed directly to your door. Much cheaper.

You can really save a lot of money in these three simple ways toward a down payment. Over time, though, you’ll be saving much more than you ever originally imagined.

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