Financial Preparation Toolkit

What You'll Learn

Saving for a home feels overwhelming because most advice is either too vague or assumes you have thousands sitting around. This toolkit breaks it down into actual, actionable steps based on where you are right now.

Calculate your exact down payment needs

Choose the right debt repayment strategy

Create a realistic savings timeline

Discover DFW-specific assistance programs

Find side income opportunities

Optimize your budget without sacrifice

Step 1: Your Financial Snapshot

Let's see where you stand right now. No judgment, just numbers.

💵 Monthly Income

Take-home pay (after taxes)

Annual Income

💳 Monthly Expenses

Total monthly expenses

Annual Expenses

📊 Current Debt

Total debt (excluding rent/mortgage)

Include: credit cards, car loans, student loans, personal loans

Monthly debt payments

💰 Current Savings

Money saved for down payment

Emergency fund

📈 Your Financial Health Score

Monthly Surplus/Deficit

DTI Ratio

Savings Rate

Emergency Fund

0 mo

Key Takeaways

Start with an honest financial snapshot - knowing your numbers is the first step to improvement

Choose a debt strategy (snowball, avalanche, or hybrid) that matches your personality and stick with it

Down payment assistance programs in DFW can provide $10,000-$20,000 - explore every option

Side income of $300-500/month can cut your savings timeline in half

Gift money from family is allowed but must follow strict documentation rules

Small budget optimizations add up - saving $500/month gets you to your goal faster than you think