How To Create A Budget or Spending Plan

How To Create A Budget or Spending Plan

May 2, 2024 | Building Emotional Muscle, Building Financial Muscle, Debt, Educational Series, Episodes, Financial Health, Financial Management 101, Home Loan, Mindset, Relationships, Saving Money, Self Development

For many people, this is where they get stuck with the first step in managing their money.  When they hear the word budget they think it means cutting back or going without and they could not be further from the truth.

A budget doesn’t have to be a cumbersome task and it’s something I like to call a spending plan instead of a budget.  By calling it a spending plan, it means you manage your money so that you have money for the fun stuff, as well as the ongoing regular stuff that comes out every month.

Creating your own spending plan involves several steps that help you manage your finances and money more effectively. Here’s a guideline to get you started:

ASSESS YOUR FINANCIAL SITUATION

  • Income: Calculate your total monthly income, including salaries, bonuses, and any other sources.
  • Expenses: List all your monthly expenses. This includes rent/mortgage, utilities, groceries, transportation, insurance, debts, and entertainment.

CATEGORISE YOUR EXPENSES

  • Fixed Expenses: These are regular, predictable costs like rent, loan payments, or insurance.
  • Variable Expenses: These costs can vary, such as groceries, dining out, and entertainment.

Assess Your Financial Situation

TRACK YOUR SPENDING

  • Use a spreadsheet, a budgeting app, or a simple notebook to track where your money goes. This will help you identify areas where you might be overspending.

SET FINANCIAL GOALS

  • Short-term goals might include saving for a vacation or paying off a small debt.
  • Long-term goals could be saving for retirement, a home down payment, or paying off a significant debt.

CREATE THE SPENDING PLAN

  • Allocate specific amounts to each expense category based on your income and financial goals.
  • Ensure your expenses do not exceed your income.

PLAN FOR SAVINGS AND EMERGENCIES

  • Aim to set aside a portion of your income for savings and an emergency fund.

REVIEW AND ADJUST REGULARLY

  • Regularly review your budget, preferably monthly, to adjust for any changes in income or expenses.
  • Be flexible and realistic with your spending plan to make it sustainable.

UTILISE TOOLS AND RESOUCES

  • Consider using budgeting tools or apps to make the process easier and more efficient.

REDUCE UNNECESSARY EXPENSES

  • Look for ways to cut back, such as reducing dining out, unsubscribing from unused services, or shopping for better deals on recurring expenses.

Consider using budgeting tools or apps to make the process easier and more efficient.

Using budgeting tools or apps is helpful if you want to make your spending plan easier and more efficient.

STAY COMMITTED

  • Stick to your spending plan as closely as possible, but allow for occasional indulgences to keep it realistic and manageable.

Remember, the key to a successful spending plan is consistency and willingness to adapt as your financial situation changes.

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Why Understanding Insurance is Key to Your Family’s Financial Security

Why Understanding Insurance is Key to Your Family’s Financial Security

Apr 24, 2024 | Book of the Week, Building Emotional Muscle, Building Financial Muscle, Debt, Educational Series, Financial Health, Financial Management 101, Mindset, Mortgage, Saving Money, Self Development

Hey there, amazing people!

As your financial coach and mortgage broker, I’m here with a warm cup of advice that’s as comforting as your morning coffee.

Today, we’re diving into a topic that might seem as complex as grandma’s secret recipe but is equally essential for your family’s well-being: Understanding Insurance. 

Stick with me, and I promise to make it as fun and digestible as your favourite weekend brunch!

The “Why” Behind Insurance

Imagine for a moment that life is a board game. You’re moving along, collecting milestones like they’re monopoly money – a new job, a house, maybe a little one (or two) joining your journey. Suddenly, a roll of the dice sends you a few spaces back: an unexpected event, an illness, or even a natural disaster. Here’s where insurance comes into play, acting like that magical “Get Out of Jail Free” card, ensuring these setbacks don’t derail your family’s financial future.

The Safety Net You Didn’t Know You Needed

In its simplest form, insurance is a safety net. It’s there to catch you and your loved ones when life’s unpredictabilities threaten your financial stability. From health insurance safeguarding against medical bills to life insurance ensuring your family’s future is secure even in your absence, each type serves a purpose, knitting a tighter safety net.

Insurance is a safety net. It’s there to catch you and your loved ones when life’s unpredictabilities threaten your financial stability.

Decoding the Insurance Puzzle

I get it, though! The world of insurance can feel like trying to solve a Rubik’s cube blindfolded. Terms like premiums, deductibles, and coverage options can be baffling. But here’s the secret – understanding insurance doesn’t require a finance degree. It’s about knowing you’re paying a small price today (premiums) to avoid a potentially catastrophic expense tomorrow. It’s betting on certainty in a world of uncertainty.

Life Insurance: The Guardian Angel

Let’s chat about life insurance – it’s like having a financial guardian angel for your family. In the event of the unthinkable, it ensures that mortgages can still be paid, dreams can be pursued, and your family’s lifestyle can be maintained. Think of it as your legacy, ensuring that your loved ones are taken care of, come what may.

Health Insurance: Your Health, Your Wealth

Health insurance is your shield on the battlefield of life. It protects you from the financial blow of medical treatments, which, let’s be honest, can cost an arm and a leg (sometimes, quite literally). Investing in health insurance means investing in peace of mind, knowing that a health hiccup won’t drain your savings.

Property and Car Insurance: Guarding Your Castle

Your home is your castle, and your vehicle, perhaps, is your trusty steed. Property and casualty insurance protect these precious assets from the fire-breathing dragons of life – theft, natural disasters, and accidents. It’s about making sure that your safe haven and your means of adventure are always ready for you, no matter what life throws their way.

Navigating Through the Insurance Maze

Now, I know what you’re thinking – “This sounds great, but how do I navigate through the maze of insurance options?” Here’s where your trusty financial coach (yours truly!) comes in. It’s about:

    • Assessing Your Needs: Each family is unique, and so are their insurance needs. It’s about figuring out what coverage is essential for you and what might be an unnecessary add-on.
    • Comparison Shopping: Just like you wouldn’t buy the first car you test drive, don’t settle on the first insurance policy you come across. Shop around, compare quotes, and read the fine print.
    • Asking Questions: No question is too small or silly. Whether it’s clarifying terms or understanding coverage options, ask away! Knowledge is power, especially when it comes to insurance.

Each family is unique, and so are their insurance needs.

The Bottom Line

Understanding insurance is akin to learning a new language – it might seem intimidating at first, but once you get the hang of it, it’s incredibly empowering. It’s about ensuring that no matter the twists and turns life throws at you, your family’s financial security is unshakable. And remember, as your financial coach and mortgage broker, I’m here to guide you through every step, decode every term, and help you build that financial safety net your family deserves.

So, let’s raise our coffee cups to making informed decisions, securing our family’s future, and tackling the insurance puzzle together. Your financial security isn’t just a goal; it’s a journey we’re on together. Cheers to making it as smooth and secure as possible!

Remember, in the grand game of life, insurance is not just a precaution; it’s a strategy for enduring prosperity and peace of mind.  

If you want more help understanding your insurance, then reach out to your financial planner or insurance specialist and get the clarity you need to ensure you’re covered where you need to be and not paying for stuff you don’t necessarily need.

The Learning Hub at Financial Management 101 is all about getting the financial education you need to make informed decisions about your financial life and future. Join today for only $79 per month and get immediate access to all courses and books including ongoing financial and mindset monthly coaching now.

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Fixed vs. Variable: Navigating Mortgage Interest Types for Homebuyers

Fixed vs. Variable: Navigating Mortgage Interest Types for Homebuyers

Apr 17, 2024 | Book of the Week, Building Financial Muscle, Educational Series, Financial Health, Financial Management 101, Home Loan, Mindset, Mortgage, Relationships, Saving Money, Self Development, Welcome

Hello, aspiring homeowners and financial adventurers! As your trusty financial coach and savvy mortgage broker, I’m here to guide you through the thrilling yet often perplexing world of mortgage interest types. 

Picture this: you’re embarking on a quest to find the perfect home, but there’s a fork in the road. Do you take the path of fixed interest rates or venture down the trail of variable rates? Let’s unpack these options together, with a sprinkle of fun and a dash of wisdom, to ensure you make the best decision for your financial future.

The Tale of Two Rates: Setting the Scene

Imagine two characters in our story: Fiona Fixed and Victor Variable. Fiona enjoys predictability in her life. She loves knowing exactly how much her payments will be each month, providing her with a sense of security and peace of mind. Victor, on the other hand, is a bit more daring. He’s willing to ride the waves of the market, betting that interest rates will go in his favour, potentially saving him money in the long run. 

Steady Ship vs. Sailboat

The Fixed Rate: A Steady Ship in Stormy Seas

Fixed-rate mortgages are like a sturdy ship that can weather any storm. They offer the same interest rate for the entire term of the loan, whether it’s 15, 20, or 30 years. This means your monthly mortgage payments remain unchanged, making budgeting as easy as pie. It’s perfect for those who, like Fiona, prefer stability over surprises.

Pros:

    • Predictability: You’ll sleep soundly knowing your payments won’t change.
    • Simplicity: Easy to understand, especially for first-time homebuyers.
    • Protection: You’re shielded from sudden spikes in interest rates.

Cons:

    • Higher Initial Rates: Fixed rates are usually higher than the initial variable rates.
    • Less Flexibility: If interest rates fall, you’re stuck with your rate unless you refinance.

The Variable Rate: Sailing the Winds of Chance

On the flip side, variable-rate mortgages are like a nimble sailboat that adjusts its sails with the winds of the market. The interest rate can fluctuate based on market conditions, meaning your monthly payments could increase or decrease. This is where Victor finds his thrill, in the potential for lower overall costs when rates favour the borrower.

Pros:

    • Lower Initial Rates: Start with a lower rate compared to fixed-rate mortgages.
    • Potential Savings: Benefit from paying less interest when rates decrease.
    • Flexibility: Often includes options to lock in a fixed rate if the winds change.

Cons:

    • Uncertainty: Your monthly payment could change, making budgeting a challenge.
    • Risk: If interest rates soar, so do your payments.

Navigating Through the Fog: How to Choose

Now, how do you choose between these two? Consider your financial situation, lifestyle, and risk tolerance. Here are a few lanterns to help illuminate your path:

Financial Stability: If you’re in a stable financial position and can handle potential increases in your payments, Victor’s variable rate might be your calling. However, if you prefer the safety of a predictable budget, follow Fiona’s lead with a fixed rate.

Market Trends: Keep an ear to the ground on market trends. If rates are historically low, locking in a fixed rate might be wise. But if you’re feeling optimistic about where rates are headed, the variable rate could be your treasure.

Term Length: Consider how long you plan to stay in your home. If it’s a short-term stay, a variable rate might offer lower initial payments. For a long haul, a fixed rate could offer long-term stability.

Ask the Experts: Consult with me, your financial coach and mortgage broker. I love helping heroes of homeownership chart their course to the perfect mortgage.

The Adventure Awaits

Remember, choosing between fixed and variable interest rates isn’t just about crunching numbers; it’s about aligning your mortgage with your life’s voyage. Whether you’re a Fiona Fixed, preferring the calm seas of predictability, or a Victor Variable, ready to sail the fluctuating financial tides, the right choice is out there.

As your financial navigator, I’m here to help you explore the possibilities and make an informed decision. So, gather your maps and set your sights on the horizon; your dream home awaits, and the perfect mortgage is your key to unlocking the door. Happy house hunting, brave explorers.

Whether you’re dipping your toes into the home-buying waters for the first time, eyeing a smarter refinancing strategy, coming off a fixed interest rate, or expanding your portfolio with another investment property, Karen’s 20-minute discovery call, is your first step towards mortgage mastery! Let’s dive into your financing needs, explore your options, and perform a FREE mortgage health check to ensure your plans aren’t just dreams but achievable realities.  

Karen Adams of Financial Management 101
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Strategies for Relief When Facing Financial Stress

Strategies for Relief When Facing Financial Stress

Apr 11, 2024 | Book of the Week, Building Emotional Muscle, Building Financial Muscle, Debt, Educational Series, Episodes, Financial Health, Financial Management 101, Home Loan, Mindset, Mortgage, Saving Money, Self Development

In today’s fast-paced world, financial burdens can be overwhelming. Whether dealing with debt, managing daily expenses, or saving for the future, these challenges can be extremely stressful. However, with the right strategies, it is possible to overcome these obstacles and achieve financial stability. Here, we will look at practical ways to manage and alleviate financial stress.

1. CREATE A BUDGET AND STICK TO IT

The cornerstone of financial health is a well-planned budget. Start by tracking your income and expenses to understand where your money is going. This will help you identify unnecessary expenditures and areas where you can cut back. A budget gives you control over your finances and prevents overspending.

2. BUILD AN EMERGENCY FUND 

One of the best ways to buffer against financial stress is by having an emergency fund. Aim to save enough to cover at least three to six months of living expenses. This fund can be a lifesaver in unexpected situations like job loss or medical emergencies, preventing the need for high-interest loans.

Create a budget and pay-off high-interest debts

3. TACKLE HIGH-INTEREST DEBTS

High-interest debts, such as credit card balances, can quickly spiral out of control. Prioritise paying off these debts by focusing on the ones with the highest interest rates first. Consider debt consolidation or refinancing options if they can lower your interest rates and make payments more manageable.

4. INCREASE YOUR INCOME 

Sometimes, cutting expenses isn’t enough. In such cases, look for ways to increase your income. This could mean asking for a raise, taking on a part-time job, or turning a hobby into a source of income.

5. SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVICE

If you’re struggling to manage your finances, don’t hesitate to seek help from a financial advisor. They can provide personalised advice suited to your financial situation and help you develop a plan to overcome your financial burdens.

6. EMBRACE A MINIMALIST LIFESTYLE 

Taking a minimalist approach can help to reduce financial stress. This doesn’t mean living without essentials, but rather focusing on what you truly need and value. It can lead to significant savings and a less materialistic, more fulfilling life.

Conclusion

Overcoming financial challenges necessitates a combination of practical strategies and a mental shift. By implementing these strategies, you can lead a financially secure and stress-free life. Remember that small steps can lead to big results, so start today and take control of your financial future.

 

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Mortgage Basics – Helping You Understand Your Home Loan Better

Mortgage Basics – Helping You Understand Your Home Loan Better

Apr 10, 2024 | Book of the Week, Building Emotional Muscle, Building Financial Muscle, Debt, Educational Series, Episodes, Financial Health, Financial Management 101, Home Loan, Mindset, Saving Money, Self Development

Hey, fellow financial mavericks, I want to share a quick bite-size piece of information about your home loan, or, if you’re looking to dive into the property market as a first home buyer, then here are some of the mortgage terminology to help you understand what you’re getting into.

Buying a home and financing your new home is one of the biggest purchases of your life and is both exciting and nerve-racking.  Firstly, it takes enormous amounts of your income to pay and smash down the home loan, however, it’s also one of the most rewarding things to see you owning your own home, whether it’s your first home or building an investment portfolio.

UNDERSTANDING MORTGAGES: THE BASICS

A mortgage is essentially a loan that helps you buy a property. When you take out a mortgage, you’re borrowing money from a lender (usually a bank or mortgage company) to purchase a home. The twist? The home itself serves as collateral for the loan. This means if you fail to make your payments, the lender has the right to take ownership of the property through a process known as foreclosure.

THE PLAYERS: LENDER AND BORROWER

In the mortgage world, the lender is the financial institution lending you the money. You, the homebuyer, are the borrower. Lenders evaluate your creditworthiness based on factors like your credit score, income, debts, and employment history. This evaluation helps determine how much they’re willing to lend you and at what interest rate.

YOUR MORTGAGE: THE KEY COMPONENTS

Let’s break down the basics of what a mortgage is, including terms like interest rates, principal, what amortisation means, and what it means when you look to refinancing. 

So let’s start with:

Principal: This is the amount of money you borrow to buy a home. For example, if you buy a house for $500,000 and make a down payment or deposit of $80,000, your principal would be $420,000.

Interest Rate: The lender charges you interest as a cost of borrowing money. Interest rates can be fixed (remaining the same throughout the term) or variable (changing with market conditions). The rate impacts your monthly payment and the total cost over the life of the loan.

Amortisation: This refers to the process of spreading out the loan payments over a set period, typically 20 to 30 years for mortgages. Each payment includes a portion that goes toward the principal and a portion that goes toward interest. In the early years, a larger part of each payment goes toward interest; later, more goes toward reducing the principal.

Lenders Mortgage Insurance (LMI): Insurance added onto a home loan where your deposit or down payment is less than 20%, which is there to protect the lender if you default on the loan.

Government & Property Taxes: Whenever you purchase a property in Australia, the government charges you stamp duty and other costs, which you can either pay the amount owing at time of settlement, or, you can add the govt costs into your home loan.

Refinancing: This is the process of replacing your existing mortgage with a new one, usually to take advantage of lower interest rates. Refinancing can reduce your monthly payments or shorten your loan term, but it may involve additional costs like settlement fees.

Monthly Payments: Your monthly mortgage payment typically includes:

        • Principal repayment: Reduces your outstanding loan amount.
        • Interest payment: The cost of borrowing the principal.

Long-term Costs: Over the life of the mortgage, you’ll pay back the principal plus the total interest accrued. A higher interest rate or a longer term means more money paid in interest. 

For instance, a $420,000 mortgage at 6% interest over 30 years will cost less in monthly mortgage repayments, however you will be paying more in total interest than the same mortgage at 6% interest over a 25 year period.  With a lower loan term, you will be paying higher monthly payments, but in total lower interest costs.

Generally a more extended loan term, helps make the repayment more manageable.

Successful Mortgage Management

THE MORTGAGE PROCESS: STEP-BY-STEP

    • Pre-Approval: Before house hunting, you may want to get pre-approved for a mortgage. This gives you a better idea of how much you can afford and shows sellers you’re serious.
    • Find a Home: Once pre-approved, you can shop for a home within your budget.
    • Apply for a Mortgage: After finding a home, apply for a mortgage. You’ll need to provide detailed information about your finances.
    • Underwriting/Assessment: The lender reviews your application, verifies your financial information, and assesses the property’s value.
    • Approval & Settlement: If the loan is approved, you’ll sign the loan documents, your solicitor or settlement agent will assist you in finalising the loan contract and then once settles, the home is yours!

TIPS FOR SUCCESSFUL MORTGAGE MANAGEMENT

    • Understand Your Budget: Know what you can afford monthly,, to avoid financial stress.
    • Improve Your Credit Score: A higher credit score can secure a better interest rate, saving you money in the long run.
    • Save for the Deposit/ Down Payment: The bigger your deposit payment, the less you have to borrow, and the less you pay in interest and possibly mortgage insurance.
    • Use a Mortgage Broker: Work with a mortgage broker research for you on who is going to offer you the best deal, based on your own personal financing position. Your mortgage broker will offer you a product comparison, highlighting a few lenders rates, terms and features and benefits.

Understanding these quick basics, helps in making informed decisions about buying a home and choosing the right mortgage. It’s essential to consider both the monthly affordability and the long-term financial implications when selecting a mortgage type and term.

CONCLUSION

Navigating the world of mortgages can feel overwhelming, but armed with the right information, you can make decisions with confidence. Remember, a mortgage is one of the biggest financial commitments you’ll make, so it pays to understand the basics and consider your options carefully. 

As your financial and mortgage coach, I’m here to guide you through this journey, ensuring you feel empowered and informed every step of the way.

Understanding your home loan is about more than just signing papers; it’s about taking control of your financial future and making the dream of homeownership a reality. 

If you want to know whether your home loan is working effectively for you and your personal finances contact me at karen@harkenfinance.com for a chat.

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The Importance of Good Credit

The Importance of Good Credit

Mar 27, 2024 | Building Emotional Muscle, Building Financial Muscle, Debt, Educational Series, Financial Health, Financial Management 101, Home Loan, Mindset, Mortgage, Saving Money

People often underestimate the importance of having a good credit score and report.
In this article, I am going to walk you through how credit can affect your money management now and in the future.

If your credit score is high, you have a greater chance of getting approved for loans and credit cards from lenders and credit card companies.

Here are 5 reasons why a good credit score is important:

1. REDUCED INTEREST RATES ON BORROWED MONEY

Over time, you can save money by having lower interest rates on credit cards and loans, thanks to good credit.

2. GREATER CHANCES OF LOAN AND CREDIT CARD APPROVAL 

If your credit score is high, you have a greater chance of getting approved for loans and credit cards from lenders and credit card companies.

3. BETTER LOAN TERMS

Having good credit can result in better loan terms, such as higher borrowing limits, in addition to lower interest rates.

4. LOW OR NO SECURITY DEPOSIT REQUIREMENTS

Having good credit can result in better loan terms, such as higher borrowing limits, in addition to lower interest rates.

5. EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

When hiring new employees, especially for jobs requiring financial responsibility, some employers run credit checks.

Building and Maintaining a High Credit Score

Here are some ways to maintain and build on your credit score to keep it healthy and high:

1. PAY YOUR BILLS ON TIME

Your credit score can suffer greatly from late payments. Make sure that all of your bills—including credit card and utility bills—are paid on time.

2. MAINTAIN LOW CREDIT CARD BALANCES 

Using a significant portion of your credit limit, or high credit utilisation, can have a bad effect on your credit score.

3. BUILD A LONG CREDIT HISTORY

Your credit score is influenced by the length of your credit history.

4. KEEP THE NUMBER OF NEW CREDIT INQUIRIES TO A MINIMUM 

If you make too many hard inquiries quickly, your score may suffer.

Understanding Your Credit Report

It’s important that you understand your report and what it contains. You can do free annual checks by many of the online credit reporting agencies, like; Equifax and Experian, to name just two. Order your report and take a look at how yours stacks up.
Your credit report will include your credit history; including account details, payment history, credit inquiries, and public records like bankruptcies.

Make sure to regularly check your credit report for errors, including false payment statuses, accounts that are not yours, and inaccurate personal information.

Building and Maintaining a High Credit Score

Impact of Credit on Loan Eligibility and Interest Rates

Credit scores are used by lenders to evaluate risk. A higher score translates into lower risk, which makes you a more desirable borrower.

Your interest rate is determined, in large part, by your credit score. Better scores usually result in cheaper rates, which means you will pay less money back over the course of the loan.

Certain insurance providers base their auto and home insurance rates on credit scores. 

Conclusion

Having good credit provides many financial opportunities. Understanding and managing your credit puts you in a better position to pursue favourable financial opportunities.

Regularly monitoring your credit report and score, developing responsible credit habits, and understanding how your financial behaviour affects your credit can result in significant savings and opportunities throughout your life.

 

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