As the calendar flips to September, the countdown to the festive season begins. Although the season brings joy and offers opportunities to spend quality time with loved ones, it often comes with considerable expenses, especially if you’re playing host. To help you manage the holiday stress, it’s recommended to review your spending early and get your household matters in order. Here are five key points to guide you:
1. Review Your Budget
Start by examining your budget. Have you been maintaining it effectively? Are there ways to improve? If you’re unsure about where to begin, consider the areas where people usually overspend:
· Utilities: These are some of the highest household costs, especially during autumn and winter when heating and lighting usage increases. Minimize these expenses by searching for affordable energy providers. Due to the market deregulation in US and Canada, you have the freedom to decide on your service provider. Websites like albertaenergyproviders.com give information on local providers and their rates.
· Dining Out: While restaurant meals can be great treats, they can also add up to a substantial bill if they’re frequent. If you eat out more than once a week, you might be spending too much. Consider cooking at home more to cut down on such costs.
· Entertainment: Quality family time is essential, but it doesn’t necessarily require hefty spending. Rather than indulging in expensive outings, consider finding low-cost or free activities in your local area.
2. Reconsider Your Health Insurance Provider
Autumn usually marks the open enrollment period for health insurance through employers. Even if you’re content with your current plan, it’s worth considering other providers to check who offers the best deals. Your preferred doctor’s clinic might also accept policies from your new provider.
3. Schedule Your Car Service
Regular vehicle maintenance by a certified mechanic can prevent expensive repairs later. Routine services such as fluid and filter changes, tire rotations, and tune-ups are generally affordable and can often be completed in a day, saving you from needing a rental car.
4. Organize a Roof Inspection
As autumn weather is unpredictable, it’s important to ensure your home’s structure is sound, particularly your roof. Since the roof and gutters often get overlooked for maintenance, hire a professional roofer for an inspection and to carry out any necessary repairs.
5. Create a Stockpile
Household grocery bills can quickly spiral out of control. The price surge during stormy fall and winter months doesn’t help either. Rather than having to overspend each month, start building a store of commonly-used items. Clipping coupons and carefully watching sales can help you build your stockpile swiftly.
Don’t let the costs of autumn and winter sneak up on you unprepared. While it’s impossible to plan for every eventuality, proactively managing predictable expenses can alleviate both the financial burden and the time investment. This list should serve as a beneficial tool as you gear up for the approaching holiday season.
