January is a great tie to organize your budget, so make THIS the year you enjoy being financially in control!

To establish a realistic household budget, start by gathering all your past financial information. Document your expenses - every single one! It's easy to tally your regular monthly bills - household expenses, car payments, insurance installments and so forth, but figuring out your miscellaneous expenses takes a little more effort.

Keep track of all your expenses over the next three months. A simple software program can make this easier. You'll be suprised how those quick trips to the supermarket - on top of your weekly shopping trips - add up. Jot down how much you spend on car repairs, gifts, entertainment and vacations (including out-of-pocket cash), what you spend for coffee, newspapers, and lunch.

Of course, check your credit card situation too. How much do you pay each month, and what interest rate? We can discuss ways you can lessen monthly payments and find an additional source of cash by consolidating your credit cards, or even look into a home equity loan to allow you to pay a lower interest rate.

Please call if you need help clarifying your home loan options!