Don’t spend all your money during this Holiday Season! Everyone knows that it’s one of the most shopping-heavy time of the year. We thought that maybe we can help you out, and give you some tips and ideas on how to save money in December. No one likes to look at their credit card statement at the end of the year and start the new year with any financial worries. Maybe this year, you will be able to avoid it (or at least be a little less stressed out 😉)

Most Obvious

Make a Budget

No one likes to think about financial limitations when it comes to buying gifts for others. However, if you try and be more realistic about what you can spend upfront, it will be easier when the time comes to put cold, hard cash on the table. Think about the number of people you’re planning on buying gifts for, and then make a list of possible gifts. Do your research! There is always a chance that you will find your gift on a different website or a store with a less expensive price tag. After finding all the prices for your gifts, evaluate if you can afford the overall cost or not. In case you feel like it might be a little too much, think of other gift ideas or keep looking for alternative options. At least you will know exactly how much you’re spending!

Don’t Forget

All the additional little things

Sure, you are most focused on the neverending list of Christmas gifts you have to buy, but don’t forget about the little things that you’ll have to spend your money on in addition to presents. One of the big “little things” this month will be donations. Of course, you want to give to charity as much as you can, but you need to be prepared for that and decide where is this money coming from? Is it your gift budget? Should you reevaluate your list? You are also most likely going to be invited to multiple Christmas parties, or events so keep those expenses in mind as well!

Don’t spend all your money on gifts – Here is how!

 LIZ HELLER DECEMBER 16, 2019  CHESTER COUNTY  REAL ESTATE  LEAVE A COMMENT

Don’t spend all your money during this Holiday Season! Everyone knows that it’s one of the most shopping-heavy time of the year. We thought that maybe we can help you out, and give you some tips and ideas on how to save money in December. No one likes to look at their credit card statement at the end of the year and start the new year with any financial worries. Maybe this year, you will be able to avoid it (or at least be a little less stressed out 😉)

Most Obvious

Make a Budget

No one likes to think about financial limitations when it comes to buying gifts for others. However, if you try and be more realistic about what you can spend upfront, it will be easier when the time comes to put cold, hard cash on the table. Think about the number of people you’re planning on buying gifts for, and then make a list of possible gifts. Do your research! There is always a chance that you will find your gift on a different website or a store with a less expensive price tag. After finding all the prices for your gifts, evaluate if you can afford the overall cost or not. In case you feel like it might be a little too much, think of other gift ideas or keep looking for alternative options. At least you will know exactly how much you’re spending!

 

Don’t Forget

All the additional little things

Sure, you are most focused on the neverending list of Christmas gifts you have to buy, but don’t forget about the little things that you’ll have to spend your money on in addition to presents. One of the big “little things” this month will be donations. Of course, you want to give to charity as much as you can, but you need to be prepared for that and decide where is this money coming from? Is it your gift budget? Should you reevaluate your list? You are also most likely going to be invited to multiple Christmas parties, or events so keep those expenses in mind as well!

Watch out!

Be aware of the silent money thieves

Yes, we know – you are running around all day and trying to find perfect gifts… You need coffee, right? Well, maybe not exactly. Getting lattes piled sky-high with whipped cream, splurging on a pair of shoes for yourself, paying for a photo with Santa – we’re all guilty of indulging a little more than we should simply because it’s the holiday season. However, you can’t get stuck in a trap where constant spending on “extras” eats into your budget. Cutting back on those extras can have a big impact on your bottom line. For example, if you purchase a $4.50 pumpkin spice latte three times per week throughout December, that’s $162 you’ve spent on pricey drinks. That money could have paid for a few Christmas gifts, enough gas to get to Grandma’s house, or a generous donation to a charity of your choice. Before you splurge on a little treat or “extra” for yourself, be sure it’s really worth the price.

 Christmas Traditions

Take a minute to think about your Christmas Activities

Are your Christmas traditions expensive? Do you go out all the time, travel or buy overly expensive gifts for people who wouldn’t mind exchanging those for some quality time with you? Think about all of the things you’re spending your money on, and consider new traditions! Maybe you will enjoy staying at home, making your own popcorn with hot chocolate and watching a Christmas movie more than going out? Or maybe you can spend some time on crafts and make your own Christmas gifts this year? The possibilities are endless! You can even take your family to a free Christmas light show rather than to a fancy dinner 🙂 Don’t be afraid to create new traditions and new memories this year!

Always Remeber…

The holiday season is for families to spend quality time together, relax and have a bit of fun after a long year. There is no need to be stressed out about money and gifts because deep down everyone just wants happiness and attention on Christmas.  Try it out this year and let us know if you felt better about how you spent your holidays this year.

 

🥰🙏🧡

Enjoy all the local holiday fun! Wishing you tons of snowball fights and warm nights by the fireplace from the Beth & CJ Stein Team. If you have any questions on any of these events or are interested in buying or selling your home, give us a call.