All of us are struggling enough to make ends meet. Most of us are trying to figure out how in the world we can supply our loved ones with a good and memorable holiday season, without going into more debt trying to do so. Here are some pointers from South Florida Lifestyle Homes to help you and your loved ones have a magical holiday season on a budget!

  1. Make a list and narrow it down – Write down everyone you can think of that you normally buy presents for. Now, who in that list could you maybe do something a little more “inexpensive” for? Maybe homemade jam, a box of homemade cookies…..they will absolutely love the gift, and know it came from the heart (and definitely does not cost as much!)
  2. Stick to a Budget and Stay With It – Look at your financial situation. How much can you afford to spend on Christmas this year, realistically? Don't put your Christmas shopping on your credit card if possible — just spend what you can find within your regular budget or in savings (though it's not a good idea to deplete your savings just for gifts). Once you have a total amount, decide how you'll split it among the people on your list. If the budget isn't big enough for the list, see some of the ideas below.
  3. Think About Doing an Exchange With Family and Friends – This can really cut down on your costs. Even if you only decide to do this with adults, you end up only having to purchase one gift. Of course, it does also mean that you will only get one gift in return as well, but you can make an agreement that you must spend $x on a gift, therefore you will get something that you possibly have wanted for quite a while!
  4. Make Your Own Gifts – Most people absolutely love to have a homemade gift, whether it be a basket of homemade jams and cookies, or a hand-knit scarf! And, it is much more inexpensive to make it yourself!
  5. Buy Used If You Can – Sounds tacky, we know. There may be friends or family members that absolutely love antiques. Go into an antique store and take a look around. You’d be amazed at what you can find that would brighten someone’s day, and décor!
  6. Buy Just For the Kids – Most adults already have everything that they really want. And, the holiday season is really about watching kid’s faces as they open those presents. There is no law saying that you have to purchase gifts for adults as well.
  7. Volunteer  - There are so many worthwhile causes that need help. Why not volunteer your time as a present to yourself, and maybe even gather some friends and family members to join you. You’ll be amazed at the humble feeling you will get knowing that you’ve made a difference, and it didn’t cost a penny!
  8. Wrap With Newspaper – One of the best presents that some of have ever received have been wrapped with the Sunday Comics. There is nothing like being able to laugh while you’re flipping that box around and reading all your favorites! And, it’s free!
  9. Give Homemade Coupons – Especially the elderly will love a coupon book, where you could help them with chores that they may have problems doing themselves. You could make coupons to cook them dinner once a week, mow the lawn, wash the car – be creative!

10. Look For Freebies ­– Some department stores during the holiday season will have special deals, such as “Purchase 2 sweaters and get 1 Free!” Take advantage of this – that free sweater could be that extra present!

Hopefully these tips will help you and your family save a little more this season. For more information on the the South Florida Lifestyle please contact Chris and Natascha Tello.
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