Get the entire family involved in writing down your financial goals!

If everyone is focused on the same goals, then it is easier to make sacrifices together. I recommend having a family meeting every week to allow communication, commitment, and accountability.  If you are a family of 1 (in other words, you are single), get a friend who will consult with you each week regarding your financial goals.  Have a regular time for your weekly meeting.

To start, why not call a family meeting right away and get everyone’s input and commitment to your goals?  Where can each person make sacrifices?  For example, can we cut out some of the entertainment expenses, rent a movie and make popcorn at home instead of paying $50 to go to the movie theater?

Look at your dining out, coffee, and snack expenses.  You will be shocked at how quickly the Starbucks and fast food bills add up.  To save money, simply prepare your coffee and meals at home, ahead of time, which requires some advance planning.

Read more in our book, "Buy Your First Home", http://tinyurl.com/dy2wjx4.