4 Expenses to Consider: Back-to-School to the New Year

It’s back to school time which means we are over halfway through the year and the countdown to 2017 has begun! Fall and winter can zoom by in a flash and have a lot of major events that tend to soak up your time and money.

One way to combat the stress between now and the end of the year is to plan each big expense you have coming up. Let’s get organized before it’s too late!

Back to School

Back to School clothes, shoes, registrations, activates, after-school care, supplies… the to-do list keeps growing larger as your wallet grows smaller. Having a plan of exactly what is needed and the best or cheapest place to purchase the items can go a long way. First, check what you already have. You can save some time and money skipping buying supplies you already own. Another tip, check the dollar store for pens, pencils, binders, folders, scissors, glue sticks and other common necessary items. Not everything your child takes to school on the first day has to be name brand or covered in the latest cartoon characters.

Fall Activities

Most kids participate in sports and after school programs that can incur fees, uniforms and equipment costs. Decide which activities will be joined this year and plan for the cost and time commitment beforehand.

Vacation Time

The end of the year is riddled with vacation time and days off of school. Filling those hours can become stressful and expensive. Make sure to think about exactly where and when you want to travel and what activates your family will enjoy on the trip. If you decide to stay in town, make sure any accommodations that defer from your regular schedules and routines are coordinated well in advance.

Holidays

Have you ever heard the phrase “boo, gobble gobble, ho ho, happy new year”? If so, you know the fall and winter seasons can fly by about as fast as it takes you to say that sentence. Make sure to budget for decorations, costumes, cooking needs, candy and gifts! We always want you to be the life of the party, but not at the cost of your sanity or bank account!

The Heather Roxburgh Group is here to help you with any planning and budgeting needs you may have from now until New Years. If a change in your living situation has been on your mind, now is a great time to buy and sell. Call us for any of your real estate needs and we can help you make the best decision for your family!