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I know, I know…it's been a few months since I wrote an update. Fixing that today 🙂
Even though things are hectic right now, we're still taking the MoneyStepper’s 2015 Savings Challenge. The two main goals of the challenge are:
- Grow Your Net Worth
- Save % of Your Net Income
For 2015 our family will do our best to increase our net worth by 30% and have a 20% savings rate.
We pushed up from our original goals of 25% and 15% since things were looking good first quarter.
Now, though? Not so much.
I will say that we are saving money, but we are behind with the student loan payments. I'll explain why below (and share our numbers).
Overwhelmed with Selling the House (and More)
The big word for the summer has been BUSY.
We've listed our house, but haven't sold it yet. We're still keeping the house nice and tidy for potential buyers, but it's harder than I imagined.
Having showings during the day while trying to work and watch two kids is draining. I've had to work on weekends to keep things on schedule.
To help things along, we're taking on home improvement projects to make the place more appealing. The struggle is getting them done – not only is our time limited, but showings are through the day.
I've had a last minute request to see the place while we were updating the bathroom. They came early and even though they were told what was going on, the feedback was about the painter's tape. (Seriously?!)
As far as work, I wrapped up the first season of the Couple Money Podcast. Loved it – thank you for all of your support.
Please check out the current season; we're looking at ways to cut the cable TV cord while still catching your favorite shows and how to be more handy around the house.
On top of everything I'm also preparing for my first panel presentation scheduled for next month.
I'm incredibly thankful that everyone on the panel has been doing an awesome job. It is a weight off my shoulders (but I still have butterflies in my stomach).
Since my laptop died the other month, I'm buying a replacement before the conference.
I'm sorting through the back to school sales to see if a deal pops up. I hate spending money, especially now, but having a laptop is critical for work.
How We're Doing with Savings and Net Worth
You now heard how things have been, let me show you our numbers for July:
- YTD Net Worth Improvement: 24.4%
- YTD Savings Rate: 25%
My husband had a bonus come in which was a nice boos and working on the Summer of Savings has been a great motivator for me.
We're holding strong this month so far, but we have a wedding we're attending that will require some extra spending.
Thoughts on Our MoneyStepper Progress
Now that I shared our progress and challenges, I'd love to get an update from you – how have you've been doing with your money goals?
Have you had any setbacks? Any successes?