There’s no better place to look for a potential roommate than Facebook! Many cities around the world have Facebook Housing Groups where people in need of a second, third, fourth, or fifth roommate post that they’re in need. If you want to live in cheaper accommodation, then shared housing is your best bet. Besides, it could be a lot of fun living with a bunch of like-minded people, and sharing a kitchen and living space with them (Alcove Rooms).
Consider exploring freelancing or side gigs to generate additional income. This extra cash can be handy for covering expenses like groceries, gas, or clothing without impacting your primary budget for rent and bills. Freelance opportunities abound in various fields such as writing, tutoring, gardening work, or babysitting, offering flexible options that align with your skills and interests. Engaging in such side activities not only provides financial flexibility but also opens up avenues for personal and professional growth.(Forbes).
Cleaning supplies can be costly. They can add up over time, especially if you’re trying to keep your household tidy. It’s best to make your cleaning products using simple ingredients like vinegar and baking soda, which will not only make it cheaper to clean your house, but the natural ingredients are a lot better for your home (Good Housekeeping).
To avoid waste and only buying what you need, try meal planning. This is a surefire way to not waste any food, and only consume what you will finish. It’ll also save you precious time throughout the week, which means you won’t have to spend as much time cooking. It’ll also prevent you from eating unhealthy meals that you can grab on the go. It’s also easier to stick to a budget with meal planning (Broke in London).
There’s nothing better than receiving a homemade gift from someone you love! Create handmade gifts for special occasions. These won’t hurt your wallet, and just because you’re giving a cheaper-priced gift doesn’t mean it has any less sentimental value. Chances are, you’ll create a gift that’s even better and more meaningful than one you’d give by buying it at the store. Some ideas are personalized wooden hangers, pillows, and coasters (Thrifty Frugal Mom).
You might not think this is one way to get cheaper bills, but it works! Negotiate with service providers for better rates on utilities and internet. Most people don’t negotiate, so you might get a better deal. The worst thing they can do is say no, but it’s worth a shot. Saving even ten bucks a month adds up over time. If you’re not comfortable haggling over the phone, try sending them an email or contacting them over live chat (The Guardian).
Efficiently managing your household appliances can contribute significantly to reducing electricity costs over time. Every penny saved makes a difference in your overall savings, and being mindful of appliances that consume excessive energy is a prudent financial choice. Investing in energy-efficient appliances not only translates to substantial cost savings but also aligns with environmentally friendly practices. These appliances are designed to use less energy, minimizing their impact on both your monthly bills and the broader environmental footprint. Making informed choices about your appliances is a wise investment, providing long-term financial benefits while fostering sustainability. (BBC Good Food).
Optimize your budget by sharing services such as Netflix, streaming subscriptions, and gym memberships with family or friends. This approach allows you to divide the monthly costs of these services, making them more affordable for everyone involved. Many platforms offer family deals, enabling multiple individuals to be part of a single subscription or membership, thus significantly reducing the overall cost per person. As more people participate in these shared memberships, the financial burden is further lightened, making it a practical and cost-effective way to access otherwise expensive amenities. (Money Saving Expert).