Make sure that you don’t rush into a decision and that you have considered these points which can save you on your repayments:
* Interest rates – Your initial and probably final decision will be based on what the interest rate is. You are able to choose from a variable rate or fixed. If you are intending to pay off your debt as soon as possible or would like to make additional repayments a variable rate could be the best thing for you. Having a fixed rate allows you to budget and means that your rate will be safe from any Reserve Bank rate rises that may occur.
* Hidden fees and charges – Read your product disclosure statement (PDS) and make sure there are no added fees that you’re unaware of. This could include establishment fees, early repayment fees, annual fees or extra charges if you miss your payments.
For many people, summer is a time of taking a much needed vacation. In lean economic times, it can often seem difficult coming up with the money to go on a vacation. However, even in difficult economic times, when you plan a reasonable and achievable budget, you can still go on a fun and relaxing vacation without breaking the bank. Below are a number of tips to summer vacation budgeting:
1. It is essential to plan for a summer vacation. One way of planning an affordable vacation is to create a realistic budget. It is always better to start planning your budget several months in advance of the vacation. You should consider such expenses as food, travel, gas, entertainment activities, and accommodations. Once you have created a budget you should look for ways to cut down on the costs of each expense. As well, you can start setting money aside each month and put it in a summer vacation fund.
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“A man may, if he knows not how to save as he gets, keep his nose to the grindstone.” Benjamin Franklin
“The amount of money you have has got nothing to do with what you earn. People earning a million dollars a year can have no money and people earning ,000 a year can be quite well off. It’s not what you earn, it’s what you spend.” Paul Clitheroe
“A penny saved is a penny earned.” Benjamin Franklin