Buying a house is a big dream for many, but saving for one can feel hard—especially if you don’t make a lot of money. The good news? It’s possible! With small steps and smart habits, you can start saving today. Here’s how:
Money-saving skills
1. Set a Realistic Goal: Save Money for a House
First, find out how much house you can afford. Talk to a lender or use a free online mortgage calculator. You’ll usually need a down payment—this is the money you pay upfront. Some loans ask for 20%, but many programs let first-time buyers pay just 3% to 5%.
Example:
For a $200,000 home, 5% is $10,000. That’s your savings goal.
2. Open a Separate Savings Account
Keep your house fund separate from your daily money. This makes it harder to “accidentally” spend. Choose a high-yield savings account so your money earns a little interest over time.
3. Make a Budget That Works
List your income and expenses. Look for areas to cut back—like takeout, streaming services, or unused subscriptions. Even saving $5 a day adds up!
Tip: Try the 50/30/20 rule:
- 50% for needs
- 30% for wants
- 20% for savings
If you’re tight on cash, even saving 10% is great. The goal is to build the habit.
4. Pick Up a Side Hustle
A small extra income can go straight into your house fund. Try:
- Freelancing online
- Dog walking
- Food delivery
- Weekend gigs
Saving just $200/month gives you $2,400 a year!
5. Use Windfalls Wisely
Tax refunds, bonuses, or gifts? Don’t spend them. Put them directly into your house fund. It’s a fast way to grow your savings.
6. Explore First-Time Buyer Programs
Look for down payment assistance programs in your area. Some help with thousands of dollars for people with low to moderate income. You can also look into FHA loans or local grants.
7. Track Your Progress
Stay motivated! Use a goal tracker app or draw a chart on your wall. Watching your savings grow keeps you focused.
Final Tip:
Saving for a house is a marathon, not a sprint. Even if you start small, you’re making progress. Be patient, stay consistent, and don’t give up. Homeownership can be within reach—even on a low income!
Guest Posting on Personal Finance Blogs
Write related posts and include a link back to your article. Target blogs that accept guest posts like:
- The Penny Hoarder – Focus on frugal living or saving tips.
- MoneySavingMom – Pitch content on saving money as a parent or on a low income.
- Making Sense of Cents – Michelle accepts personal finance guest stories occasionally.
👉 Include a backlink in the content or bio.
Submit to Financial Directories or Link Roundups
- Modest Money’s Blog Directory – https://www.modestmoney.com/top-finance-blogs/
- Camp FIRE Finance – https://campfirefinance.com/submit/
These sites collect great finance articles and often allow backlinks.
✅ 3. HARO (Help a Reporter Out)
- Sign up at https://www.helpareporter.com/
- Respond to finance-related journalist queries. When published, many responses get backlinks from news sites like Forbes, Business Insider, etc.