Family Financial Challenge inspired by Gail Vaz-Oxlade #SavingMadeSimple #PGmom

When I was younger, the only goal I had before turning 30 was to be in a home where I was paying a mortgage (living in Toronto, I was being realistic - a mortgage is pretty much a necessity unless you win the lottery shortly after entering the workforce). Some of my friends cared more about finding a husband or having a child, but not me.

So it was kind of ironic on my 30th birthday I found myself with a two month old baby living with my boyfriend…in a rented apartment. And while I wouldn't give my daughter up for anything, I do find myself sort of jealous friends who have mortgages.

I am hoping 2014 will be the year of the mortgage. Chris and I have been saving our pennies (well, nickels now that the Canadian penny doesn't exist) for a hefty downpayment. We have been learning about property tax and maintenance fees. We have been scouring MLS for condos in our prince range. For the most part, we have figured out how to juggle rent, daycare, car payments, insurance, groceries, etc. And if we haven't, the Family Financial Challenge inspired by personal finance expert Gail Vaz-Oxlade will certainly put us in the right direction.