With cost of living pressures continuing to rise across Australia and New Zealand, more households are feeling the need to tighten their belts. But you don’t always need major changes to make a real difference. Often, it’s the little things that help keep your budget on track.
Here are some practical, everyday ways to stretch your dollar further, and create a bit of breathing room at home.
Give your mortgage a regular check-in
If you’ve had your home loan for a while, it might be time to give it a closer look. Interest rates have shifted a lot in recent years, and even a small change in your rate or loan structure can lead to decent savings.
It’s not just about chasing a lower rate, think about whether the loan still suits your goals. Is the loan term working for you? Are you using any redraw or offset features? It could be worth speaking with a mortgage broker or your bank to explore your options.
Cancel what you’re not using
Recurring payments can quietly chip away at your budget. Gym memberships, streaming services, app subscriptions, it all adds up. Take a few minutes to go through your statements and cancel anything you no longer use or need.
For the ones you do keep, consider switching to annual billing or bundling services to reduce the monthly cost.
Share services with family or mates
If you’re signed up to a few different entertainment platforms, sharing access with family or friends is a simple way to cut costs. Most platforms allow multiple users or devices on the same account, just check the terms to make sure you’re sticking within the rules.
Rein in takeaway spending
Ordering takeaway can be tempting after a long day, but frequent deliveries can seriously dent your budget. A smart strategy is to reserve takeaway for special occasions and try cooking your favourites at home instead. Homemade ‘fakeaway’ meals are cheaper, healthier, and surprisingly fun to make.
Plan your meals to reduce waste
Meal planning doesn’t have to be complicated. Set aside a few minutes each week to plan your meals, make a shopping list, and stick to it. Cooking larger portions can also save time and money, leftovers make great lunches or quick dinners on busy nights.
Use online shopping to avoid overspending
Shopping online for groceries is a great way to stay focused and avoid impulse buys. Most supermarkets release new specials midweek, so doing your weekly order around Wednesday can help you snap up the best deals.
Cut energy costs at the source
Energy bills are a major household expense, but they don’t need to be set in stone. Use a comparison site to see if you’re still on a competitive deal. Some states and regions even offer rebates or incentives for switching providers.
Beyond that, small habits can make a big difference, switch off unused appliances, use electric blankets instead of cranking up the heater, and close off rooms you’re not using to trap warmth where you need it most.
Set up smart savings systems
Organising your finances into separate accounts, one for bills, one for savings, one for everyday spending, can help you stay on track. Placing your savings in an account that’s harder to access can also reduce the temptation to dip into it for things you don’t really need.
Save on fuel with a quick check
Before heading out to fill up the tank, check a fuel price app like PetrolSpy or Gaspy (NZ) to find the cheapest servo nearby. Even small savings per litre add up quickly over time.
We’re all navigating change together
Whether you’re reviewing your household expenses or planning your next property move, it’s all about making smart, informed choices. These tips can help ease the pressure and make your home life more comfortable during challenging times.
If you ever need guidance on the property side, whether it’s buying, selling, or simply understanding where the market’s at, we are always here for a chat.
