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Today Jake has officially moved in with his dad, my youngest son, Gymnast. And I have passed off the financial responsibility on to him as well.

Jake moved in with Princess last summer when she got her solo apartment. I insisted on it as a security measure. And frankly, the two boys dogs just were a lot to handle together. All in all it worked out great for everyone.

Princess got some security as she settled in. Gymnast got the rest of the year to get his own place. And I shed some of the responsibility of physical care of another dog.

But I continued to contribute financially to his upkeep. When I bought food, I provided for him. I paid for the annual vet visit. Etc.

Now Gymnast will take on those responsibilities! We are all happy campers about this. Another right of passage for my growing kids completed.

On His Own Insurance

Gymnast made another leap into independence last month. He got his very own car insurance policy. He finished paying his car off in December. We completed the switch in car title while he was in Georgia in January. And then he shopped for insurance.

His monthly premium on the family plan was right at $458 per month. (He has had 3 wrecks since getting his license, including totaling his first car back in 2021.) That made our monthly payment $930 per month. Ouch!

: Wreck #1 – Gymnast totaled his and Princess shared car in Dec, 2021. He should not have survived this wreck, can came out with air bag burns and scratches. God was watching out for him!

: Wreck #2 – Gymnast was run off the road by a man in a rage. While there was a witness to the aggressive driver, no charges were filed so Gymnast was held responsible

I covered his insurance payment for the last quarter of 2024. And he used that time wisely to pay off his car. So proud!

Anyways, he shopped around, found full coverage for right at $800 for 6 months and made the switch last month. I am just so freaking proud of him. (All my kids, really.)

So while he had started covering the cost again in January. It does take some of the mental pressure off me to be on his own policy now.

New Insurance Rate

Beauty got her own policy last fall when she purchased a new car. (She was on the family plan as a driver since she drove my car regularly.) Gymnast moved to his own policy this past month. So it’s just Princess and I. And this month is the end of the 6 month policy. I’ve just gotten our new rate for the next 6 months…

$273 monthly payment. I about fell out of my chair when it came through. I know there are lots of factors with insurance. Princess turns 21 this term. Credit score has greatly improved. Clean driving records.

Grateful! Another step to improving my financial future.

Hope

Hope is a resourceful and solutions-driven business manager who has spent nearly two decades helping clients streamline their operations and grow their businesses through project management, digital marketing, and tech expertise. Recently transitioning from her role as a single mom of five foster/adoptive children to an empty nester, Hope is navigating the emotional and practical challenges of redefining her life while maintaining her determination to regain financial control and eliminate debt.

Living in a cozy small town in northeast Georgia with her three dogs, Hope cherishes the serenity of the mountains over the bustle of the beach. Though her kids are now finding their footing in the world—pursuing education, careers, and independence—she remains deeply committed to supporting them in this next chapter, even as she faces the bittersweet tug of letting go.

Since joining the Blogging Away Debt community in 2015, Hope has candidly shared her journey of financial ups and downs. Now, with a renewed focus and a clear path ahead, she’s ready to tackle her finances with the same passion and perseverance that she’s brought to her life and career. Through her writing, she continues to inspire others to confront their own financial challenges and strive for a brighter future.

Methods to Save and Make Money in the Long Run

by Semify

Energy Efficiency Upgrades

One of the most effective ways to cut costs at home is by making energy efficiency upgrades. Improving your home’s insulation and sealing air leaks can significantly reduce utility expenses. As per the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), such enhancements can slash heating and cooling costs by about 15%, translating to an 11% reduction in total energy expenditures.

Investing in energy-efficient appliances is another strategic move towards saving money. These appliances consume less power, thereby lowering utility bills over time. While the initial costs may be higher, the long-term savings and reduction in energy usage can yield significant financial benefits.

Additionally, switching to LED lighting can further reduce energy consumption. LEDs use less electricity and have a longer lifespan compared to traditional incandescent bulbs. Over time, the reduction in replacement and energy costs can accumulate substantial savings.

Home Improvement Investment

Strategic home improvements not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of your property but can also increase its value. For instance, painting the interior of your house can offer a remarkable financial return. According to Open Door, this simple upgrade can provide a return on investment of 107%.

Another valuable improvement is renovating key areas, such as the kitchen and bathrooms. These areas significantly influence a home’s resale value. A well-done renovation in these parts of the home can pay off handsomely when it comes time to sell.

Additionally, updating flooring in key areas can make a substantial difference. Hardwood or tile floors in living areas tend to be more attractive to potential buyers. This type of upgrade can enhance visual appeal and provide an excellent financial return when you decide to sell.

Outdoor Enhancements

Improving your home’s exterior grounds can provide both enjoyment and financial benefits over time. Landscaping is a prime example of an outdoor enhancement that adds value. As reported by BankRate, well-thought-out landscaping efforts can offer a return on investment ranging from 20% to 30% of your property’s overall value.

Installing outdoor features such as decks or patios can further boost property value. These additions create functional outdoor space that appeals to potential buyers. The enjoyment and increased property value combined provide incentives for such investments.

Furthermore, maintaining existing landscape elements enhances curb appeal. Consistent lawn care and plant maintenance add to the aesthetic and financial allure of the property. Potential buyers often view well-maintained exteriors as a reflection of the overall care in home ownership.

Smart Money Management

Effective money management is essential for long-term savings and wealth accumulation. One strategy is creating and maintaining a realistic budget to track income and expenditures. Keeping tabs on financial habits can aid in identifying unnecessary spending and reallocating those funds towards savings.

The power of compound interest should not be underestimated when planning for the future. Regularly contributing to savings or investment accounts will grow over time, yielding substantial returns. This strategy requires discipline but offers potentially significant financial growth with minimal effort.

Additionally, finding additional sources of income can bolster financial stability. Consideration of side hustles or freelance work may fill financial gaps and help reach monetary goals. This extra income can then be used to further enhance your savings or improve your quality of life.

Using These Methods

Saving and making money in the long run requires a combination of smart investments and efficient spending strategies. By implementing energy upgrades, undertaking home improvements, and making outdoor enhancements, homeowners can not only save but also increase their property value. Together with effective money management practices, these strategies offer a roadmap to achieving financial security and growth.

While initial investments may seem daunting, the long-term benefits far outweigh the costs. Whether through reducing energy use, enhancing home aesthetics, or diversifying income streams, the potential for saving money is virtually limitless. These efforts lay the groundwork for a financially sound future.

In conclusion, making informed decisions about energy consumption, property upgrades, and financial management can have a profound impact on one’s financial health over time. With careful planning, homeowners can enjoy both immediate savings and long-term financial rewards. By taking these steps, individuals can secure a more stable financial future.

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One Less Dog to Feed and Son to Insure