Given the absolute chaos that is our lives, and that for most of 2014 I felt like I was totally spiraling out of control in the finances, the kids, and my job, I'm happy to report we beat the mortgage pay down goal for the year.
Our goal was to pay the balance down to $41,500. The last payment of the year hit, and we now owe $41,181.74. We beat the goal by $319. We paid $14,846.30 off the balance, which is about $3,000 more than we would have if we'd only made minimum payments.
When figuring out what might be realistic goals for next year, I realized if we paid off as much as we paid this year, the balance would be in the $20ks by this time next year. Now that is REALLY close to pay-off!
Hazzah! I'm ecstatic. I can't wait to have this mortgage paid off!
2014 mortgage totals
December 16th, 2014 at 03:45 pm
December 16th, 2014 at 04:24 pm 1418747072
December 16th, 2014 at 05:32 pm 1418751148
Many of us are working on defining goals for 2015 just now. I find if I write down goals with specific outcomes, it seems to create a stronger commitment to making them happen.
Since gas prices have been unexpectedly dropping dropping, I've decided to keep the budget sum spent month-by-month the same and re-direct the savings to new blinds for the two sliding door sets and wall of windows. Since September we've been working on making mileage more efficient. I'd rather do errands on my way home or plan stops in areas than make specific trips for only one objective. It's mostly because traffic and parking are such a nightmare here.
Love to hear more about your book project.
December 16th, 2014 at 06:18 pm 1418753901
I still have to come up with the list of goals, tempered by whatever projects and trips we have next year. So much to think about!
Gas prices are lower, but they don't make up enough of our expenses to make a difference, which I suppose is a great problem to have. even at 4 a gallon we only spend about $30 for a fill up (2010 Honda Fit and 1997 Honda civic). now, it's closer to $24, which is awesome! We work from home a lot, and most of the driving is trips to the store and to grandma's house. She lives 60 miles away.
December 16th, 2014 at 07:20 pm 1418757603
December 16th, 2014 at 11:28 pm 1418772523