Retirement

Losing weight and saving more money are perennial New Year's Resolutions. A few simple spending changes can maximize your 2010 savings.

Spending a Few Dollars Less Can Save Hundreds

When it comes to making big decisions like buying a house, setting a retirement date, or even deciding to implement a savings plan, people often get overwhelmed by the decision making process.

A few simple New Year's spending resolutions recommended by Jeff Yeager can be a great way to take "baby steps" toward reaching your 2010 savings goal.

In addition to the following tips, homeowners age 62 and older can investigate the possibility of a reverse mortgage as a cash flow source. Reverse mortgages can be accessed as a lump sum or as a monthly payment or even as a line of credit which is available for future needs. Comparing quotes from lenders online can be a good way to gain information about the potential of this financial resource.

Savings Tips for 2010

  • Review Insurance Policies: Save money by bundling policies with one company and comparing rates from different companies
  • Use Your Gift Cards: Don't forget to use your cards before they lose value or expire
  • Stop Drinking Bottled Water: You can save money as well as the environment by drinking tap water
  • Cancel Gym Memberships: Walk, bicycle, or exercise at home to save money while keeping fit
  • Kick Bad Habits: Smoking, drinking, and gambling cost money now and have the potential to cause future health or financial problems
  • Cut the Grass: Not only can you save by cutting the grass yourself, but if you return more of your lawn to nature or to a no-maintenance ground cover you can save money on lawn products
  • Cut Paper Use: Use fewer paper napkins and paper towels and disposable dishes to save money and the environment
  • Meat-free Days: Choosing to avoid meat one or two days per week can be healthier and save money too
  • Bright Idea: Switch to CFLs (compact-fluorescent light bulbs) to save on your utility bills
  • Garbage Out, Garbage In: Force yourself to get rid of one item before you buy something new

By implementing one or several of these ideas you may be closer to reaching your savings goals.

Michele Lerner
Michele Lerner is a freelance writer with twenty years of experience writing articles and web content for newspapers and magazines on topics related to real estate, personal finance and business. Her clients include The Washington Times, Bankrate.com, Urban Land Magazine, NAREIT's Real Estate Portfolio and numerous Realtor association publications. Michele's first book, "HOMEBUYING: Tough Times, First Time, Any Time" is available now at Amazon.com.