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Home design trends in any year contradict themselves. For 2023, designers said it was the year of organic materials and muted greens, while other designers were painting walls black for dark academia bedrooms—complete with crows. Trends come and go, but we can use them to inspire ourselves and create our idea of a happy place. No matter how different we all may be, there’s a design trend for each of us—even if it includes crows. 

When home decorating, the goal is to find colors and elements that you like and that support the look you want to achieve, and then give them a try. The trick comes in finding a way to try 2024 trends without making major changes that you’re not ready to live with for the long haul. From the many, many trend lists we’ve looked at this year, we’ve chosen styles and elements that run the gamut from bold to understated, and modern to traditional. Whether you’re a moody crow lover or a modern farmhouse diehard, you’ll find something in this year’s trends to up-level your look.

1. Quiet Luxury

Designer: ANA Interiors. Photographer: Ana Cummings

If you’ve scrolled your feeds looking for home design ideas recently, you’ve seen #quietluxury trending. This understated approach to posh emphasizes quality and craftsmanship over flash and bling. Paring down decor, keeping clutter at a minimum, confining colors to muted neutrals, and adding quiet luxury ingredients are meant to inspire calm. The centerpiece of a quiet luxury living space is the cloud couch, a white sofa with a puffy seat and back pillows stuffed with goose down. 

“Quiet luxury is here to stay,” says Morgan Olsen, Thumbtack’s home and design expert. “Homeowners are done with loud luxury trendy pieces and are being very intentional with their spending. 2024 will be about craftsmanship over big brands and labels, as homeowners look for reclaimed materials and quality furniture.” 

That means buying pieces that last decades rather than the 3 or 4 years of mass-produced furniture. “But who said you have to get the cloud couch?” asks Olsen. Instead, find secondhand furniture by quality makers and reupholster it. Or pare down your wall art and knickknacks, then add goose-down throw pillows and a luxurious throw like this State Cashmere Striped Throw Blanket to your existing neutral sofa. 

2. Healthy Habits

Designer: Kelley Design Group.
Builder: CKN Capital Group.
Photographer: Cate Black Photography

Bringing wellness closer to home is no longer a luxury but an essential for many people, especially for exercise and spa experiences. “Homeowners will continue to turn their homes into wellness retreats, prioritizing features that have health benefits,” says Olsen. 

According to the 2024 Houzz U.S. Emerging Summer Trends Report, with cold plunge pool, indoor sauna, and backyard sauna all rising in search frequency in the first quarter of the year, compared with Q1 2023. At-home exercise has evolved from a stationary bicycle, with searches for bocce court, bowling alley, and game room all higher than last year. Mentions of pickleball courts on Zillow are up 64 percent over last year. People are looking for homes with private courts and nearby public courts. Pickleball in the driveway, anyone?

In addition to saunas, Amanda Pendleton, Zillow home trends expert, lists spa bathrooms and red-light therapy rooms among the features home buyers are using to complement wellness routines. While replacing a bathtub with a walk-in spa shower is a trend for remodeling projects, you can spend far less and create a spa bath at home with simple switches. Create a relaxing atmosphere by focusing on all five senses. Replace the counter clutter with a flower arrangement or basket of fluffy towels. Choose soft textures in muted colors and a comfy bath pillow, like this Luxurious Cork Bath Pillow by LIVTUUshop at Etsy. Add the soothing scent of essential oils and a source of meditative sound. Don’t forget a glass of cucumber water.

3. Hidden Spaces

Courtesy of Ruhl | Jahnes Architects.
Photographer: Nat Rea

Nothing beats a cozy reading nook, according to the 2024 Houzz U.S. Emerging Summer Trends Report. Searches for library walls, reading corners, and book nooks have all gone up this year. Secret spaces have long been a favorite for people who enjoy a bit of whimsy at home, along with out-of-sight storage. The Houzz Emerging Winter Trends Report, released at the end of 2023, shows that cloaked additions are gaining popularity. Searches for trapdoors are up by 350 percent, and searches for kitchens with hidden pantries rose by 250 percent. Say goodbye to the wet bar in the living room and hello to a secret speakeasy bar and lounge, or a wine bar and cellar under the stairs, both searched more often in 2023. 

If you’re not ready to tear down any walls or excavate the closet under the stairs, create nooks and hidden spaces with a few easy changes. Give more privacy to a window seat by hanging curtains outside the front of the seat rather than against the window. Hide the entrance to a closet with this Door Mural of Antique Bookshelves by Recallart at Etsy. In the kitchen, create a secret pantry by adding vertical wood panels on and around the pantry door. For renters, this Abyssaly Wood Slat Peel-and-Stick Wallpaper at Amazon is removable; homeowners who want a more permanent solution without the hassle of cutting wood can try the Set of 4 PVC Wall Paneling pieces at Wayfair that mount with adhesive.

4. Blues and Greens

Courtesy of Brittany Lyons Interiors.
Photographer: Mike Healey Photography

Green is the most popular color this year for home design. No, wait, it’s blue. Blue is the most popular color this year for interiors. Designers differ on this one, but most agree that shades of blue and green are taking center stage in the home. Mitchell Parker, senior editor at Houzz, says blue provides a calming influence. 

Sage and gray-green also are on the rise, according to the Houzz winter report. A barely-there sage functions as a neutral on kitchen cabinets, and a darker gray-green provides contrast to warm neutrals. In true blue fashion, however, several paint companies have chosen a shade of blue as their 2024 color of the year. 

Add contrast to neutral furniture and flooring with blue or green items you already own, gathering throw pillows and blankets, table runners, vases, decorative containers, and framed prints from other rooms. Add a blue or green ribbon trim to curtains or the base of a fabric sofa without a sewing machine by using HeatnBond Hem Iron-On Adhesive at Amazon; seal the trim with a flat iron (used for hair styling) in places you can’t fit onto an ironing board. For a classic look, we like this M&J Trimming Greek Key Fabric Ribbon in denim blue and sage options.

5. The Return of Creams

Courtesy of kate roos design.
Photography: Andrea Rugg Photography Andrea Rugg Photography

While many new homes are still coated in gray from floor to ceiling, the trend is moving away from this cool palette and back to warmer colors like cream, tan, and brown. Stark white walls are too harsh for this year’s earthy color schemes. Parker says beiges, creamy off-whites, and rich browns are the focus for a warm, welcoming space. 

If you like the look of an all-neutral, off-white room, add textures and patterns, as well as a variety of tones, to create a more layered look, says Parker. The Graham Leather/Suede Lumbar Rectangular Pillow Cover and Insert at Wayfair has a removable cover to swap for a machine-washable option when needed. Swapping accessories has a big impact, especially if you clear the clutter first. We like this Handmade Wood Table Vase, an organic take on the popular ceramic styles, and the Magalia Wood Tray that brings both functionality and latticework texture.

6. Whole Wall Art

Photo: iStock

If you want an abundance of colorful expression in your home design, those cream walls act as a blank canvas perfect for art and pattern. Bold floral wallpaper or a hand-painted mural are both big this year. Zillow’s 2024 home trend report shows that many homeowners are into eclectic, maximalist interiors. Murals in homes for sale are showing up 18 percent more often than last year. The good news is you can learn how to paint a mural even if you’re not an artist, with a bit of painter’s tape and imagination.

Wallpaper also comes in mural patterns, including the peel-and-stick variety beloved by renters and frequent redecorators everywhere. Modern botanicals, landscape vistas, and stripes are trending patterns this year. Guest baths are often the place to start, since the design will make a big impact in a small space without costing a lot of time or money. Murals like this Chinoiserie Watercolor Peacock Wallpaper by FabbWallDecor, can be subtle while bringing interest to a neutral palette. Or make a big impact with this Removable Abstract Wall Art Wallpaper by ONDECORstore, both at Etsy. 

7. Handmade Touches

Photo: Zillow

This year, embrace handmade pieces that show the inevitable imperfections of craft. Artisans are impacting today’s trends with handmade tiles, hand-thrown serving dishes, and hand-painted murals. Pendleton points to Murano glass chandeliers as an example of the handmade and bespoke features popping up in today’s homes. The colorful light fixtures are featured 58 percent more often in searches on Zillow, despite the sometimes hefty price tag. If this Ares Murano Glass Chandelier at $1,675 is out of budget, support an Etsy artist with this Handmade Dusty Pink Peony Pendant by FloralsBySERRO. 

Handmade items make your home unique and add a personalized touch to any room. The 2023 Houzz U.S. Bathroom Trends report showed that 62 percent of renovating homeowners are choosing a custom or semi-custom vanity. Repurpose a piece of vintage furniture and make your own vanity, or add painted details to an existing model.

8. Brutalism

Photo: Zillow

Even if industrial design isn’t your style, the return of brutalism can be a welcome change in today’s homes. Brutalist design uses materials like raw concrete, brick, steel, and bronze. You’ll see organic shapes with raw edges and unpolished surfaces, as well as a streamlined design for functionality. Pendleton says Zillow has seen a 452 percent increase in the number of homes for sale that mention brutalist design.

“The return of brutalism is the most surprising rising trend of 2024, particularly after the hygge movement where homeowners embraced cozy comfort over hard surfaces,” she says. “The hallmarks of brutalist design—raw, organic, and unfinished materials—are already showing up in furnishings, lighting, and accessories. When juxtaposed with overstuffed sofas, curved armchairs, and plush high-pile rugs, brutalist architectural elements can add visual interest and much-needed contrast to a space,” says Pendleton.

9. Style That Sticks

Designer: Molly J Littlejohn Design.
General Contractor: Kraft Custom Construction.
Photographer: Chuck Collier

Some trends stick around for years. Most people are hanging onto their outdoor kitchens and fire pits. Others come and go, like inflatable furniture. No one is missing that squeaky stuff. As interior design trends have bent back toward the traditional and eclectic, designers are emphasizing a focus on timeless style that doesn’t look dated from year to year. 

Parker says modern homes are showing brick, clay tiles, rustic wood, and other materials that signify a legacy rather than a fad. To get a timeless look that works for your space, create meaning through your belongings. A quality collection of original artwork from your travels will never go out of style, nor will vintage area rugs. Antiques are a good bet too because they add contrast to modern accessories. 

White bedding, pleated curtains, and anything with stripes serve as foundational textiles you can build upon as trends change. Truly timeless style is about quality and meaning, so make space in your home for what matters most.

Source: bobvila.com

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Mortgage lock volumes pulled back in June, as pervasive market sluggishness kept a grip on the housing market, according to a new report.

Rate locks finished 7.84% lower compared to May, Mortgage Capital Trading said in its latest report. On a year-over-year basis, though, volumes increased by 6.11%.  

Among loan categories, purchase locks fell 8.99%. On the other hand, the refinance market saw an 11.56% jump in rate-and-term transactions, but cash-outs inched down 0.36% between May and June. 

The latest reading comes after lock volume rose by 6.78% the previous month, with every loan type posting increases, after interest rates hit a 2024 high in early May, then slid downward. 

The June decline in activity occurred as the 30-year fixed rate hovered near 7% throughout the month, displaying less volatility than shown earlier this year. Typical seasonal patterns also contributed to the decline, with purchase momentum slowing after the initial surge in spring home buying seen every year, MCT said. 

But June’s reversal continues to show the effects of persistent market headwinds as well and suggests “a continuing stalemate between limited housing supply and higher interest rates.” 

Although last month’s interest rates were, on average, lower than May’s levels, they ran higher than what the typical homeowner holds today, according to data from Freddie Mac’s weekly Primary Mortgage Market survey.

Limited interest among homeowners to list their properties and take on higher-rate loans, in combination with still-rising prices, means mortgage activity will likely move sideways over the summer, MCT added.

“Market supply likely peaked at the start of summer, and with rates remaining steady, significant changes in volume are not expected in the near term,” the report said. 

Borrower interest in refinancing, though, has come in stronger in recent months, albeit from historically low levels, driven by buyers who made their purchases in the past year, ICE Mortgage Technology reported this week.

Lending momentum is likely to pick up when the Federal Reserve makes its first interest rate cut, a decision many mortgage industry stakeholders have been awaiting in hopes of driving demand. Investors and lenders will be closely eyeing June jobs numbers, which came out Friday, and the month’s inflation numbers for possible signs.

Should they continue to point to a slowing economy, “we could see one or two rate cuts by the end of the year,” said Andrew Rhodes, senior director and head of trading at MCT, in a press release.  

June’s Consumer Price Index data is scheduled to be released on Thursday, July 11.   

Source: nationalmortgagenews.com

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AE Jobs, CU Patelco Ransomware Attack; Fed Primer; Jobs Data Nudges Rates Lower

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AE Jobs, CU Patelco Ransomware Attack; Fed Primer; Jobs Data Nudges Rates Lower

By:
Rob Chrisman

Fri, Jul 5 2024, 11:47 AM

Before the internet, everything worked fine without it, right? Just ask the members, whether they be depositors or borrowers, of credit union Patelco, the scene of the latest (known) hack attack. Yes, it is a good reminder for companies to continue to beef up their computer systems, and have a plan in place should something happen. It is also a reminder for anyone with their money in a bank or credit union to have some of their money at a different institution. The news isn’t much better for lenders in general: According to Curinos, June 2024 funded mortgage volume decreased 13 percent year-over-year and decreased 5 percent month-over-month. The average 30-year conforming retail funded rate in June 2024 was 7.11, 1bps higher than May 2024 and 66bps higher than the same month last year. Curinos sources a statistically significant data set directly from lenders to produce these benchmark figures. We drill into this data further here. (Today’s podcast is found here and this week’s is sponsored by Bundle, the attorney-prepared legal documents company that is dedicated to the real estate, mortgage, and title industries. Fuel your operations and execution of documents from deeds to subordinations to assignments, and everything you need for any order, in one bundled price; receive 20 percent off using the code “Chrisman” at checkout. Hear an interview with realtor Clint Jordan on the latest NAR Settlement effects from a realtor’s perspective and ways he is working with loan originators to be more efficient together.)

Fed Purchase Primer

Remember when the Fed was gobbling Treasury and mortgage-backed securities? That has, of course, ended, but the Federal Reserve Open Market Committee’s activities, however, should also be of interest to every lender, its originators and borrower clients. Rates were low during the pandemic, in part, due to this constant buying. Both Treasury and mortgage rates are higher now than three years ago… is that entirely the Fed’s doing?

First, a short history lesson. The Federal Reserve has not always purchased billions of dollars of securities as it was doing in 2020 and 2021. Between mid-2007 and early 2015, it purchased approximately $3.7 trillion of Treasury and mortgage-backed securities (MBS). Purchases quieted down between mid-2017 and mid-2019, and then picked back up. The Federal Reserve owns about $2.4 trillion in Agency fixed-income securities. There’s about $12 trillion outstanding, which means the Fed is holding about 20 percent of total MBS outstanding…the proverbial 800-pound gorilla in the MBS marketplace.

Everyone knew that the Fed’s purchases (though announced well in advance), that drive up security prices and drive down rates, at some point would taper off and stop entirely as they have, depending on economic conditions. It is important for MLOs to remember that one of the purposes of the Central Bank of the U.S. is to increase the stability of our financial system. Sudden moves have the opposite impact. When the Federal Reserve began reducing its billions of daily and monthly bond purchases, thus driving up long-term rates and cutting origination volumes, lenders struggled to replace this income (when interest rates rise, banks holding the fixed portion of the contract lose money on a mark-to-market basis. In essence, a bank is receiving a lower rate than what the market is offering).

The Federal Reserve was purchasing $40 billion in mortgage bonds and $80 billion in Treasury securities each month to augment a near-zero short-term interest-rate target range. No more, and the portfolio is “running off” as borrowers refinance or sell their homes and pay off the debt.

Investors and economists watch any speeches or policy statements from the Federal Reserve for any indication that recent data, including faster-than-expected inflation and slower job growth, will change easy-money policies. Remember that many economists expected the Federal Reserve to begin lifting the target range for the federal funds rate in 2023 and to begin tapering long-term asset purchases in the first half of 2022, which is indeed what happened.


Capital Markets

Ahead of today’s June payrolls report, markets received several labor market indicators on Wednesday. There was a below-consensus ADP Employment Change report for June (150k) and a larger-than-expected increase in weekly jobless claims (+4k to 238k). Separately, Fed minutes showed officials are looking for additional evidence that inflation is cooling before cutting rates and were divided on how long to keep rates elevated. Domestic data has, of late, pointed toward a slowing economy, reinforcing the case for a rate cut. Growth and unemployment forecasts were unchanged.

Following yesterday’s break, markets return today with the release of June payrolls. Payrolls increased 206k, slightly better than expected but with a dramatic back-month revision 111k, with the unemployment rate at 4.1 percent, and average hourly earnings were +.3 percent for the month and +3.9 percent year-over-year. The only other point of interest on today’s economic calendar is New York Fed President Williams delivering remarks. After the employment data, if anyone is around to care, we begin Friday with Agency MBS prices improved from Wednesday’s close by about .250, the 10-year yielding 4.29 after closing Wednesday at 4.36 percent, and the 2-year at 4.63.

Jobs

“Kind Lending is seeking experienced Wholesale Account Executives in the mortgage lending industry. We are one of the fastest-growing mortgage lenders in the country, committed to building a positive and collaborative team that prioritizes people and aims to bring happiness to our valued broker partners and their borrowers. Our team believes that kindness is crucial and places great importance on providing clients with a positive experience. Check out this brief message from our Chief Production Officer of TPO by visiting here. Join the #kindmovement and grow your business by taking advantage of Kind’s expanded product offerings and best-in-class operational experience. Don’t wait! Contact Delfino Aguilar or (619) 726-0377 to kickstart your career path to kindness!”

“Mega Capital continues to expand across the country by adding AEs along with operation staff to support the growth of the organization. In recent months we have rolled out our new broker platform mPOWERs to help with ease of use for the broker. We have added improvements to our non-QM platform with MGenius getting an upgrade to help assist brokers with their NON-QM needs. On top of our great rates for conventional and government loas, we continue to improve our NON-QM offerings. 3-month bank statement program, Assets utilization, and a refi with essentially a mortgage only rating needed. Our latest offering is our MVP program- $3M Loan amounts, FICO down to 660, 40 yr. I/O’s, transferred appraisals accepted, P&L with no bank statements required, 1099 program No tax return needed and the list goes on. Please contact your local AE or Mega Capital at 818 657 2600 to partner with us. Always looking for great talent to join the team. We are always looking to add sales talent, all AE’s especially those with the NON QM background, please reach out to Ed Darrow at 818 657 2600 x340.”

A 49-state licensed mortgage lender with a large servicing portfolio and strong capital base is seeking to expand its retail footprint by partnering with large production teams or regional mortgage banks interested in a capital partnership. The goal of the relationship is to leverage back-office mortgage functions (e.g., secondary, technology, compliance, operations, and licensing) to provide you with long-term production growth opportunities. By partnering with us, you can utilize our mature systems to add loan officers and scale your operations across the U.S. If you are a strong retail loan origination team feeling constrained by layers of management, or an independent mortgage lender looking for new options for your team, we offer a compelling alternative to standard “branch” offerings. Confidential and serious inquiries can email Anjelica Nixt.

A very well capitalized, mid-sized IMB servicing 100 percent of its loans in-house without a sub-servicer, headquartered in a Rocky Mountain State, is looking to acquire smaller retail IMBs who would prefer to focus on production and at the same time gain operational efficiencies. Understanding that every company has a very unique culture, the IMB is willing to allow these IMBs to operate with a large degree of autonomy, allow you to keep your trade name, and treat you as your own company. Geography is not an issue. We believe that a larger company forcing their culture upon the company being acquired never works over the long term. The vision is for this IMB to hit $5 billion in annual volume with likeminded people, and it has no desire to grow beyond that volume as the President “wants to be big enough to be a player, yet small enough to keep our soul.” Confidential inquiries should be sent to Chrisman LLC’s Anjelica Nixt for forwarding.

 Download our mobile app to get alerts for Rob Chrisman’s Commentary.

Source: mortgagenewsdaily.com

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Mortgage rates were mostly higher versus last week, according to rate data collected by Bankrate. Average rates for 30-year fixed, 15-year fixed and jumbo mortgages moved higher, while 5/1 ARM rates decreased.

Inflation has cooled somewhat, but homebuyers are still feeling crunched by high prices and rates. At the close of the Fed meeting on June 12, policymakers chose to hold rates at current levels.. The next Fed meeting concludes July 31.

“With [the June 12] announcement, the Fed confirms its higher-for-longer position on interest rates,” says Dr. Selma Hepp, chief economist at CoreLogic. “But the stance is looking more untenable as more American households continue to pull back on spending. As more economic indicators begin to confirm this and unemployment begins to rise, the Fed will then look to cut rates. What’s not clear yet is when exactly the disinflation signs will be consistent enough for the first rate cut — we hope it’s still this year.”

Often, though, the decision to buy a home isn’t based on what’s happening in the economy — it’s more personal. Depending on your situation, it might make sense to take a higher rate now and refinance later. This way you can start building equity, rather than hoping for a future of more favorable rates and home prices that might not materialize.

Rates last updated July 5, 2024.

The rates listed above are Bankrate’s overnight average rates and are based on the assumptions indicated here. Actual rates displayed within the site may vary. This story has been reviewed by Suzanne De Vita. All rate data accurate as of Friday, July 5th, 2024 at 7:30 a.m. ET.

Today’s 30-year mortgage rate goes up, +0.08%

The average rate for a 30-year fixed mortgage for today is 7.08 percent, an increase of 8 basis points over the last seven days. Last month on the 5th, the average rate on a 30-year fixed mortgage was lower, at 7.05 percent.

At the current average rate, you’ll pay $670.68 per month in principal and interest for every $100,000 you borrow. That’s up $5.38 from what it would have been last week.

The 30-year mortgage is the most popular home loan, and it has a number of advantages. Among them:

  • Lower monthly payment: Compared to a shorter term, such as 15 years, the 30-year mortgage offers lower, more affordable payments spread over time.
  • Stability: With a 30-year fixed mortgage, you lock in a set principal and interest payment, making it easier to plan your housing expenses for the long term. Remember: Your monthly housing payment can still change if your homeowners insurance premiums and property taxes go up or, less likely, down.
  • Buying power: With lower payments, you might qualify for a larger loan amountor a more expensive home.
  • Flexibility: Lower monthly payments can free up some of your monthly budget for other goals, like building an emergency fund, contributing to retirement or college tuition, or saving for home repairs and maintenance.

Learn more: What is a fixed-rate mortgage and how does it work?

15-year mortgage rate moves up, +0.06%

The average rate for the benchmark 15-year fixed mortgage is 6.53 percent, up 6 basis points over the last seven days.

Monthly payments on a 15-year fixed mortgage at that rate will cost roughly $873 per $100,000 borrowed. That may squeeze your monthly budget than a 30-year mortgage would, but it comes with some big advantages: You’ll save thousands of dollars over the life of the loan in total interest paid and build equity much faster.

5/1 ARM moves down, -0.07%

The average rate on a 5/1 adjustable rate mortgage is 6.52 percent, falling 7 basis points from a week ago.

Adjustable-rate mortgages, or ARMs, are mortgage terms that come with a floating interest rate. To put it another way, the interest rate will change at regular intervals, unlike fixed-rate mortgages. These loan types are best for those who expect to sell or refinance before the first or second adjustment. Rates could be materially higher when the loan first adjusts, and thereafter.

While borrowers shunned ARMs during the pandemic days of super-low rates, this type of loan has made a comeback as mortgage rates have risen.

Monthly payments on a 5/1 ARM at 6.52 percent would cost about $633 for each $100,000 borrowed over the initial five years, but could ratchet higher by hundreds of dollars afterward, depending on the loan’s terms.

Current jumbo mortgage rate moves upward, +0.04%

Today’s average rate for jumbo mortgages is 7.14 percent, an increase of 4 basis points over the last week. Last month on the 5th, the average rate on a jumbo mortgage was higher at 7.16 percent.

At the current average rate, you’ll pay a combined $674.73 per month in principal and interest for every $100,000 you borrow. That’s an additional $2.70 per $100,000 compared to last week.

Mortgage refinance rates

Current 30 year mortgage refinance rate climbs, +0.12%

The average 30-year fixed-refinance rate is 7.11 percent, up 12 basis points compared with a week ago. A month ago, the average rate on a 30-year fixed refinance was lower at 7.08 percent.

At the current average rate, you’ll pay $672.71 per month in principal and interest for every $100,000 you borrow. That’s up $8.08 from what it would have been last week.

Where are mortgage rates going?

The rates on 30-year mortgages mostly mirror the 10-year Treasury yield, which changes with the market. The yield curve is a tool used by investors to predict where interest rates could be headed.

“The yield curve remains inverted — no surprise here,” says Ken Johnson of Florida Atlantic University. “Until the yield curve reverts to its normal upward slope, we will not see significant downward pressure on mortgage rates.”

Besides bond yields, the Federal Reserve’s key benchmark rate also has an impact. The Fed has held this rate at a 23-year high since July 2023.

If and when the Fed cuts interest rates depends on evolving economic data, such as inflation and the jobs market. While inflation has dropped from its height in 2022, it’s still well above the Fed’s target rate of 2 percent. Unemployment is still low, though in May it hit 4 percent for the first time since 2022.

“Much like that flight where departure keeps getting delayed 15 minutes at a time with no end in sight, the timetable for when the Fed begins to cut rates is equally uncertain,” says Greg McBride, CFA, Bankrate’s chief financial analyst.

While the Fed bases its decisions on rate changes due to broader economic factors, your rate is also affected by personal finances. Depending on your credit score, down payment, debts and income, you could be quoted a rate that’s higher or lower than the trend.

What current rates mean for you and your mortgage

Mortgage rates fluctuate daily, but it appears that, for now, they will remain above the historical lows of recent years. If you’re shopping for a mortgage, it might be wise to lock your rate when you find an affordable loan. If your house-hunt is taking longer than anticipated, revisit your budget so you’ll know exactly how much house you can afford at prevailing market rates.

Keep in mind: You could save thousands over the life of your mortgage by getting at least three loan offers, according to Freddie Mac research. You don’t have to stick with your bank or credit union, either. There are many types of mortgage lenders, including online-only and local, smaller shops.

“All too often, some [homebuyers] take the path of least resistance when seeking a mortgage, in part because the process of buying a home can be stressful, complicated and time-consuming,” says Mark Hamrick, senior economic analyst for Bankrate. “But when we’re talking about the potential of saving a lot of money, seeking the best deal on a mortgage has an excellent return on investment. Why leave that money on the table when all it takes is a bit more effort to shop around for the best rate, or lowest cost, on a mortgage?”

More on current mortgage rates

Methodology

Bankrate displays two sets of rate averages that are produced from two surveys we conduct: one daily (“overnight averages”) and the other weekly (“Bankrate Monitor averages”).

The rates on this page represent our overnight averages. For these averages, APRs and rates are based on no existing relationship or automatic payments.

Learn more about Bankrate’s rate averages, editorial guidelines and how we make money.

Source: bankrate.com

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Fewer prospective mortgage borrowers pulled the trigger in June, according to a new report from Mortgage Capital Trading.

Mortgage rate locks decreased 7.84% in June compared to the previous month.

This drop follows a brief uptick in volume at the beginning of the traditional buying season, suggesting a continuing stalemate between limited housing supply and higher interest rates (they were 7.11% on Friday), MCT said this week.

While purchase locks fell 8.99%, refinances increased by 11.56%. Overall, on a year-over-year basis, volumes in June increased 6.11%.

In a statement, MCT’s Andrew Rhodes, the company’s head of trading, said June’s economic reports are expected to play a critical role in shaping the Federal Reserve‘s next moves.

“If the upcoming nonfarm payroll report and Consumer Price Index (CPI) continue to align with predictions, and these economic indicators continue to show progress, we could see one or two rate cuts by the end of the year,” he said.

On Friday, the jobs report showed 206,000 new jobs were created, above the expected figure of 189,000 but a meaningful decline from prior months.

Traders on Friday were pricing in two rate cuts in 2024, starting in September.

Source: housingwire.com

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Shopping for solar panels can be confusing, especially when trying to compare solar panel quotes. Solar panels are a big purchase ($23,885 on average, before tax credits), and one that will be with you for a long time. These seven steps can make comparing solar panel quotes easier.

1. Really know how much electricity you need

Solar installers might base their quotes on a measure of your average electricity use, but in the real world, your electricity needs are likely to fluctuate from month to month.

Look at your electric bill history, usually available online at your utility’s website. If your gas bill is combined with your electric bill, look at the portion of your bill that’s for electricity.

2. Review system sizes and designs

Sizing a solar system can be part science and part art, and solar companies are unlikely to arrive at exactly the same system size or number of solar panels for your home. For each quote, verify whether the estimated electricity production from your system meets or exceeds your monthly electricity needs. If system sizes vary widely in the quotes, ask the contractors about their sizing assumptions.​​

  • Do the quotes assume the same amount of available roof space?

  • Do the quotes assume you need to power an electric vehicle or heat pump heaters? You might want to size your system a bit larger now if you think you’ll need more panels later. 

  • Do the quotes assume you will generate extra power to sell back to the grid?

🤓Nerdy Tip

If your utility’s net metering export credit is low for unused electricity you send back to the grid, your savings could be less if your solar system is too large.

Also, pay attention to the system designs. Consider where the contractors propose placing the panels on your roof as well as locating the conduit to them. You’ll be looking at your solar system for a while.

3. Find each quote’s cost per watt

The main thing to compare on solar quotes is the cost per watt. Don’t compare the total costs, because solar contractors are likely to propose slightly different sizes and financing options for your system. To compare apples to apples, compare the cash purchase cost per watt.

Fortunately, this is simple to do:

  • First, find the cash price for each quote. Solar quotes can be full of loans, leases, tax incentives and rebates. Focus on the cash price before incentives.

  • Next, determine the cost per watt. To find the cost per watt, divide the total preincentives cash price by the proposed system size. For example, if the quote’s preincentives cash price is $35,000 and the proposed system size is 11 kilowatts (kW) or 11,000 watts, you’ll divide $35,000 by 11,000 to get the cost per watt: $3.18. 

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4. Look at the fine print on the financing options

There are four main ways to get solar:

  1. Buy a system for cash.

  2. Get a loan to buy the system.

  3. Lease the system instead of buying it. 

  4. Get a power purchase agreement (PPA) instead of leasing or buying. 

Not all contractors offer all of these options, and the terms will vary. If you’re opting for these, you’ll want to compare the terms:

  • Loans: There are various types of loans you can use to pay for a solar system. If the installer is offering to help you get a loan, find out who the lender is (often it’s a third party working with the installer). Be sure to compare each lender’s interest rates, monthly payments, repayment terms and fees. 

  • Leases and PPAs: In addition to comparing the monthly payments for leases and PPAs, see if your quotes include escalators, which act as scheduled increases in your monthly payment each year.

5. Compare the panel efficiency scores

Installers sell different brands of solar panels. Find out the exact makes and models in the quotes, because some solar panels are more efficient than others. The more efficient the solar panel, the less roof space it will take to generate the electricity you need. If you have ample roof space, you may not need to consider efficiency, so you can save money by getting less-efficient panels, which are cheaper. If your roof space is limited, it may make sense to spend a bit more.

6. Check to see which kind of inverter the installer is quoting

The inverter converts the sun’s rays from direct current (DC) to alternating current (AC) power that your home can use. Solar installers offer four main types of inverters.

  • String inverters, which connect multiple panels, are the cheapest type and they offer the simplest maintenance. They aren’t as shade tolerant, so they’re best if your roof has full sun all day.

  • Microinverters, which attach to each panel, are generally more expensive than string inverters. They are a good option if you have any shading because if one or two panels are shaded at any time, the other panels will continue producing. 

  • Power optimizers, which give a string inverter system a boost, are installed on the back of every solar panel. Adding expense to a string inverter system but cheaper than microinverters, they can provide a happy medium. 

  • Hybrid inverters, also more expensive than string inverters, convert and draw energy from a solar system and a battery and may be programmable, providing more operating options.

7. Compare the warranties

They’re not all the same. To ensure that the equipment in your system continues working as it should, compare the warranties in solar quotes.

  • Product warranties, which protect against manufacturer defects, typically offer 10 to 25 years of protection.

  • Power warranties or guarantees, which guarantee that your solar panels will maintain a specified percentage of electric power production during the warranty period, often run for 25 years.

  • Workmanship warranties, which protect against damage during the installation process (especially to your roof), may cover five to 25 years.

Getting help

Frequently asked questions

Source: nerdwallet.com

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Create unforgettable spaces with the best interior design software. Whether you’re a professional interior designer or a home design enthusiast, these are the top tools for bringing 2D and 3D spaces to life. 

Our expert team of reviewers have tested the best architecture software or the best 3D modeling software, so we know what you want to check out when choosing your next interior design app, and which ones really measure up. 

best landscape design software for crafting eye-catching exterior spaces. 

The best interior design software of 2024 in full:

Why you can trust TechRadar

We spend hours testing every product or service we review, so you can be sure you’re buying the best. Find out more about how we test.

Below you’ll find full write-ups for each of the entries on our best interior design software list. We’ve tested each one extensively, so you can be sure that our recommendations can be trusted.

The best interior design software overall

(Image credit: Floorplanner)

Best interior design software overall

Specifications

Operating system: Browser

Plan: Free, Subscription

Reasons to buy

+

Free plan available

+

Intuitive and easy to use

+

Broad use from interior designers to real estate

+

Numerous customization options

Reasons to avoid

–

Some limitations with the free account

–

No desktop app

Floorplanner is an online interior design app for individuals and companies, letting you redesign everything from a single room to an entire floor, or even a whole building. You can also plan out how your furniture will fit in your new home. 

This is a web-based home interior design tool, so you can achieve dazzling designs through the browser. There’s also online collaboration for editing and presenting projects in the cloud.

In our hands-on review, we felt the best home design software “is an excellent online service, designed to help you create rooms and furnish them with great accuracy. Working with it is fluid and easy, and we didn’t observe any discernible glitches. The fact there’s a free option means many amateur designer will happily use it to configure a room, but there are limitations to that option.”

Working in Floorplanner is fluid and simple – allowing you to create and furnish rooms with real accuracy. Best of all, if your needs are modest, using the program is free. 

That makes it ideal for amateur designers or those learning the art of interior design. If you find the free account too limiting, there are several subscription options available to you. Business pricing starts at $59 a month for teams. Individual pricing starts at $5. You’ll also find a credit system. As you earn credits, you can unlock extra features not typically associated with your plan.

It’s all browser-based designing, however, so needs a constant inter connection. There is an Android app available, but this is designed for presenting designs created on the website. 

Read our full Floorplanner review.

The best interior design software for architects

(Image credit: Chief Architect)

Best interior design software for architecture

Specifications

Operating system: Windows, macOS

Plan: Subscription, Perpetual license

Reasons to buy

+

Easy to learn 

+

Multi-platform

+

Limitless possibilities

Reasons to avoid

–

Can appear daunting at first

–

3D views don’t always respond as expected

Home Designer Suite delivers professional-style interior design software – which makes it powerful but also increases the learning curve. It’s not too steep as to be unnavigable, although it might overwhelm first-timers. Stick with it.

If you’re looking for meticulous planning, precise editing and customizing tools, and everything else, right down to the material required for specific jobs, this is the best interior design software for you. 

We praised the home design software in our review for its “highly detailed customisation options while at the same time, automating many processes to ease the creation process. It’s a great balance that help you create detailed environments quickly and easily.”

The interior design program is very full featured. You have full control over pretty much everything, including landscaping your dream garden. Despite its apparent complexity, there are many automatic tools that do a lot of the work for you, enabling you to focus on the details, to turn a design into a house.

Available for both Mac and Windows, you have in your digital hands everything you need to build the home of your dreams.

Read our full Home Designer Suite review.

The best interior design software for indoor/outdoor spaces

(Image credit: NCH Software)

Best interior design software for indoor and outdoor spaces

Specifications

Operating system: Windows, Mac

Plan: Subscription, Perpetual license

Reasons to buy

+

Easy to use

+

Multi-platform

+

Work on multiple levels

+

Can easily import 3D objects

Reasons to avoid

–

Not all objects installed initially

–

Occasionally awkward navigation

DreamPlan is the best home design software if you want powerful tools and simplicity of use. 

The interior design program, out for Windows and Mac, helps you create buildings on multiple levels, furnish them with a library of 3D models, and customize homes inside and out. Yes, that even includes landscape design. It’s built to let you easily make modifications and alterations.

But, in our review, what we really liked about one of the best home design software tools is that it’s “designed to make it easy to make modifications, and even goes out of its way to help you understand the app’s inner workings.”

Trace Mode will be especially handy for those with existing floorplans. These can be imported into the home design software and turned into a 3D model.   

DreamPlan features commercial and home licensing options – priced at $50 and $40 respectively, but check for regular discounts. So, it has a powerful enough toolset to use on a professional basis. But it’s intuitive enough for beginners. 

For those just starting out with the best interior design software, the built-in video tutorials help you understand the inner workings of the app – just look for the subtle blue camera icon. 

Read our full DreamPlan review.

The best browser-based interior design software

(Image credit: Dassault Systemes)

The best interior design app when you’re on-the-go

Specifications

Operating system: Browser, Android, iOS

Plan: Free, Subscription

Reasons to buy

+

Simple to use

+

Huge customisation

+

Can design an entire house for free

Reasons to avoid

–

3D pan can make some objects temporarily disappear

–

Long rendering times for low res photorealistic images 

HomeByMe is one of the best interior design apps for when the ideas are racing. It’s browser-based – even mobile browsers are supported – and has Android and iOS apps, so you can map out thoughts for your home whenever and wherever inspiration strikes.

Since the interior design tool is cloud-only, you’ll need to stay connected to use it. During our time with the home design software, we were impressed that “HomeByMe offers a very affordable service with a myriad of options. We particularly appreciated the fact that the free plan doesn’t appear to limit your design options, and lets you work on up to three different projects.” 

However, we were less impressed with the time it took to render low-res images. Worse, we found the free account pastes a giant watermark all across the image, rendering the effect pointless. HD images are rendered in minutes, and don’t have that watermark.

The platform offers three packages: free, one-time purchase, and monthly subscription. It’s a good way to see which works for you, as the free plan doesn’t appear to limit your design options, and lets you work on up to five projects. 

The limit on the number of HD photorealistic images (1920x1080px) is somewhat compensated by offering an unlimited number of lower quality ones (640x360px). You can also place real-world, branded products in your rooms for extra realism. 

HomeByMe has a lot to offer. If you’re not too fussed about those images, you can explore and create very complex designs with ease.

Read our full HomeByMe review.

The best interior design software for mobile

(Image credit: MagicPlan)

Best interior design software for Android and iOS

Specifications

Operating system: Browser, Android, iOS

Plan: Subscription

Reasons to buy

+

Easy to use

+

Free mobile app

+

Two free projects

+

Professional Report and Estimate tools

Reasons to avoid

–

AR appears to struggle when furniture is in the way

–

No desktop app

MagicPlan is one of the best interior software kits for busy creatives and contractors. 

When we reviewed the home design app, we liked its “easy to use features, an interesting AR option, and an original way of generating estimates for work needed to be done. The monthly subscriptions could pay for themselves if designing if your business, and it also offers you two free projects for casual users to explore as well.” 

Like HomeByMe, it lets you build designs from your browser, or within the Android and iOS apps. The free solution lets you design two projects. A monthly subscription is needed to unlock MagicPlan’s full capabilities.

You’ll find three tools in one: Sketch, Report, and Estimate. Essentially, tiered subscription packages that offer additional features. 

Sketch lets you create interior designs – and, for home users, that’s likely enough. Professional designers will appreciate the inclusion of reporting and estimating tools. Enterprise licensing is also available. 

One of the best interior design software tools here is the AR-enabled ‘Scan with Camera’. This lets you scan and measure the room you’re in – although we suspect this augmented reality feature would function a lot better in an unfurnished space. 

Read our full MagicPlan review.

Best interior design software: FAQs

What is interior design software?

best 3D printers. 

Time is a considerable factor. Even some of the best interior design software takes a long time to render concepts, especially when using photorealistic images. It’s a natural price to pay for high-resolution 3D designs. For some, speed may trump quality.

Check the system requirements for the software  In certain cases, highly professional interior design computer programs require high-performance computers. In this case, you may need a machine comparable to the best laptops for architecture students or the best laptops for engineering students.  These are build to smoothly run complex CAD designs. 

Check the price (and pricing model), too. Some options, like HomeByMe, offer free, paid-for, and subscription versions of its home design software. Others offer only one pricing model, so choose the one that best suits your creative budget.

How we test the best interior design software

We’ve tested a massive range of creative apps, including the best digital art and drawing software and the best graphic design software. But whether we’re testing out the top tools for 3D design or the best software for interior decorating, we follow the same fair and rigorous review process. 

When testing the best interior design software for homes, we’re looking to see how easy the experience is, how powerful the tools are, and how well the software performs. Designing in 3D can often take its toll on computers, after all. 

Asset library sizes are a factor — interior design tools should make your creative ideas a reality, not just a loose approximation. We’re also reviewing these design apps based on use. Unlike consumer software, professional-grade tools offer more advanced features, but might also have steeper learning curves and more expensive pricing models. So, we assessed how well the interior design program delivers for its intended market – whether they’re professionals or personal users. 

Essentially, when we test the very best interior design software for ourselves, we expect to see it work for its intended audience — whether they’re professional interior designers or creative enthusiasts. 

During our tests across the best home design software tools, we first set up an account with the relevant software platform, whether as a download or online service. We then tested each app using a handful of files to see how the software for interior design could be used for creating indoor spaces from scratch, bearing in mind issues such as ease-of-use, professional viability, and performance.

Get in touch

Source: techradar.com

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The thrill of Christmas is right around the corner.

This is the year you made a fresh decision to start living by a budget. You have been diligent in tracking your spending and set limits designed to help them save more and spend less.

You are desperate for a debt free Christmas because you can’t afford anything more.

I like to shop for Christmas throughout the year. But, not every year can I find steeply discounted gifts for everyone on my list. That is when I have to get serious and start using my Christmas budget worksheet.

However, a Christmas budget template will keep you on track and enjoying a merry holiday season.

You can get fancy and put your Christmas list in Excel spreadsheet or google sheets. Or you can print off a copy and write the old-fashion way. Completely personal preference and either one will get the job done.

This year, you are more determined than ever to make sure you stick to your Christmas budget and be debt free for the holidays.

And that starts with a Christmas budget template.

Why Use a Christmas Budget Template?

Just like with any advantages of budgeting, you want to make a plan for your money.

Then, you won’t be caught overspending and you can avoid the debt hangover in January.

If you want to keep your money goals, then you need to diligent in each of the holiday buying decisions you make.

Did you know most millionaires use a budget?

Now, you have a choice. Do you want a debt free Christmas by using some simple Christmas budget worksheet?

Before we drive into all of the fun and cute Christmas budget templates, you need to learn the critical areas to avoid and make sure you don’t blow your holiday budget.

Christmas Budget Categories

Christmas is a time of celebration, giving, and joy.

However, there are many expenses that come with the holiday season.

The most obvious expense to think about is probably gifts for friends and family members.

If you’re planning on buying a present for someone who’s hard to buy for, make sure they know what it is before purchasing it!

Another important factor in your Christmas budget plan should be your own personal spending habits – do not put all of your money into one category!

~ HUGE TIP ~
List your Christmas spending priorities, with #1 being the HIGHEST priority probably gifts.

Gifts

Christmas gifts are a lot more expensive this year, so you’ll want to be sure to have an idea of what people may need.

Make a list early on of who you’re buying for and try not to get carried away with the amount of money you spend.

You can also give homemade presents that are cheaper and more meaningful than store-bought ones.

Holiday Fun & Entertainment

Holiday fun and entertainment should be budgeted for.

Christmas plays and concerts, donuts and hot chocolate on Christmas Eve, visiting Santa are all things that can be budgeted to help make the holidays more enjoyable.

These activities tend to make you go over budget at Christmas because it is too hard to say no. So, set aside money for holiday fun and entertainment.

Holiday Food

Some of the budget categories to consider if you’re planning a Christmas dinner include appetizers, holiday food, and dessert.

And don’t forget the #1 priority of the gingerbread house!

Everyone entertains and hosts with their own style. Just make sure to budget for holiday food.

Planning for Holiday Decorations

If you want to get a head start on your holiday decorations, try buying them the week after Christmas. This is the best time to buy because you can find great deals and there are fewer out-of-stock items in stores.

Here are some tips for getting more affordable holiday decorations:

  1. Make your own decorations!
  2. Swap ornaments with friends!
  3. Buy pre-made decorations from Amazon
  4. Shop at thrift shops
  5. Put up three strands of lights instead of one
  6. Look through clearance racks
  7. Ask in Buy Nothing groups

Planning to Send Christmas Cards

The cost of sending Christmas cards is getting more and more expensive. Most families plan to spend over $100 on this alone.

Here are ideas to cut down on the cost:

  • Take family pictures yourself for no cost
  • Trim your Christmas card list
  • Find a cheaper place to have Christmas cards made
  • Save on prints and stamps if you’re planning to email pictures.

Budgeting for Hosting Christmas Party

Hosting may include drinks, appetizers, main courses, desserts, prizes for games, party favors, and gifts.

Pitching in by bringing a side dish, dessert, or their favorite beverage. All are great ideas to help lower your cost.

Tips on saving when going to a party

While we all love to show off, you can easily find ways to save money.

Pick a dish to share that is budget-friendly and still a hit (beans based dishes and casseroles are cheap to make).

For gifts, look at re-gifting before buying new ones. No one else will know that you never used that gift before.

Budgeting for Holiday Travel

Planning ahead for holiday travel can help you avoid unnecessary costs.

Make sure to set aside enough money for lodging, car rentals, and airfare so that your budget will be on track all season long.

If you cannot afford to travel this year, then don’t stretch yourself.

Other Christmas expenses

Holiday expenses can add up, so it’s important to budget for them. Here are six tips on how to have a more adorable holiday season:

– Field trips: going out in the city with family and friends after dark is one of the most fun parts of Christmas!

– Gift wrapping: this is an investment that will pay off in the long run. It’ll give you time to be creative, and you’ll end up with beautiful gifts at the end of it!

– Photos with Santa: maybe not everyone has a photo session during Christmas, but if someone does need a quick photo op, snapping a picture outside somewhere might be worth it.

– Keep Track of Previous Year’s Expenses: Your family is likely to have holiday expenses that vary. So, write them down to include in next year’s Christmas budget.

How To Not Blow Your Budget This Christmas

Maybe you are weary of actually making a Christmas budget because you have struggled with your budgeting process before. Don’t worry, you are completely normal and will get the hang of how to budget.

More often than not, new budget-conscious families create ambitious financial plans with lofty goals of paying off debt. They split their family income up into budgeting categories and were doing just great. That is until the holiday season came along.

That is when you realized you weren’t as diligent as you thought about setting aside Christmas money into a sinking fund. The agreed-upon gift budget categories from earlier in the years just won’t cut it.

That is where a Christmas budget worksheet becomes so helpful!

You must make decisions about your holiday plans. What did you want more? Expensive Christmas gifts with a ballooned credit card balance or a Christmas you can truly afford?

Now, let’s dive into some simple secrets to keeping a budget during the holidays.

1. Post-Christmas Situation

Before you start spending Christmas money, you need a clear vision of your priorities.

Remind yourself and your entire family about the reasons you had for getting on a budget in the first place. During our journey to becoming debt free, we were completely honest with our kids that we had greater priorities than spending money on the small stuff.

Once the excitement of Christmas passes, do you want to have regrets or a little more money in the bank?

2. Prioritize your Christmas List

Our Christmas budget worksheet will help to make this step much easier.

Start making a complete gift shopping list. Think of everyone on your list. Next, review it and prioritize the list according to your relationship with that person. Just like with personal finances, take care of immediate family first. Then, decide if you have enough in your Christmas budget for extended family, friends, neighbors, and co-workers.

Start at the bottom and eliminate any names that absolutely don’t need to be there. If you want to spend more money, then assign a portion of your budget to each of the remaining names.

It is okay to keep the gift-giving to those you are closest too! Your friends may be relieved they don’t need to reciprocate too!

3. Become Creative with Gift Giving

The first rule of thumb… gifts don’t have to be materialistic items.

You can become creative and don’t need to make 101 DIY Pinterest perfect gifts.

Think outside the box.

Experiences can make some of the best gifts ever! Find gifts that are experiences. Plus you get to spend some quality time together.

4. Stop Trying to Keep up With the Joneses’

The surest path to a blown budget is to start comparing what you’re doing with what someone else is doing. Remember, they’ll likely be crying come January.

You are going after a debt free Christmas.

One of the most slippery slopes when it comes to personal finances is trying to cover up your situation and keep the appearance of a lavish life. This lifestyle creep will destroy your values and the things you care the most about.

Make this Christmas simple and something you can afford and treasure for many years to come!

Related reading: How to Spend ZERO at Christmas in a Materialistic Society

5. Know When to Stop Shopping

If you are a thrifty person, then you probably start shopping for gifts year-round.

Those are great ways to be frugal and find terrific gifts for a fraction of the price.

However, you must be able to stop buying and put blinders on for the cheap things to pick up.

If you have spent your entire holiday budget before Thanksgiving and know you are a smart cookie to get it all out of the way, you must be able to avoid more shopping. Those Christmas sales will be tempting, but don’t get in the trap of thinking I can spend just a little bit more can’t I?

Bonus Rule – No impulse buying

Honestly, impulse buying will ruin your budget throughout the year. Around the holidays, it will become more pronounced because you want to make the season magical.

If someone gives you an unexpected gift, it doesn’t mean you have to run out and buy them something as well. A simple Thank you note will suffice.

One of the best money rules is to wait 24 hours before you buy it. The same applies to Christmas.

Free Christmas Budget Template

Here is your free Christmas Budget template.

It is very easy to use. More importantly, it will help you to make sure everything is accounted for.

Get your PDF copy of the Christmas budget worksheet by subscribing to our email list and gaining access to our FREE printables area.

Christmas budget spreadsheet google sheets

For those who want to save everything electronically, then here you go.

This Christmas budget spreadsheet google sheets can be edited to suit your style. Plus you will be able to take your spending year to year!

In our free printables area, you can download all of our budget spreadsheet version that works for you – Excel, Google Sheets, or Pages.

Time to Make Your Christmas gift template

Throughout this post, we have given you the framework to make sure you have a debt free Christmas. Now, it is time to put everything together.

Download your gift template and Christmas budget from the email form below.

Take time and reflect on what gifts you want to give. More importantly, make sure it is a Christmas that you can afford.

By keeping your goals in mind, you can survive the holidays within your budget (and maybe even under).

Enjoy our Christmas Budget Template!

Know someone else that needs this, too? Then, please share!!

Did the post resonate with you?

More importantly, did I answer the questions you have about this topic? Let me know in the comments if I can help in some other way!

Your comments are not just welcomed; they’re an integral part of our community. Let’s continue the conversation and explore how these ideas align with your journey towards Money Bliss.

Source: moneybliss.org