Top 5 Frugal Habits which Helped Us Become Debt Free

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What are the top five frugal habits that we swear by, ones that have helped us achieve a debt-free lifestyle - (and it’s NOT tracking income and expenses)?
We’ve been debt free since February of 1998 when we paid off our first home. We then raised our four sons, debt free, when our income averaged under $40K a year.
To do it, we mastered five important frugal habits.
These tactics are for those who are willing to do whatever they need to in order to grab a great, big goal (like becoming debt-free) with both hands and refuse to let go. These tips will cut to the CORE of what you really need to know to make that happen - even if your income is less than average.
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We're Hope and Larry and we love practical frugality. We raised our four sons, debt-free, including paying cash for our home when our income was well under the national average. For tips on saving money, budgeting, paying off debt, and setting goals (while living with a spirit of joy and abundance), subscribe to us here on KZbin and visit us at our website and on social media.
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[@juliescheidler7763]

I'm debt free, I think the most important thing that helped me is cook my food & pack my lunch. That literally has helped me save tens of thousands of dollars over my lifetime of work.

[@Chrissyhappy]

Definitely agree. Eating out is so expensive and becomes a habit very quickly!😮

[@sw6118]

I usually did this too-after the early 1990s-which is when every place began to sell pizza and nothing else. It always amazed me just how much a slice could end up costing you and after a while pizza is just not interesting. I enjoyed what I made much more, but it did take time and effort to keep it organized.

[@CynthiaAva]

Yes, I have made a strict food budget, which I'm sticking to...and stopped going out and eating out. It has become too expensive, especially when paying for me and my child.

[@rnupnorthbrrrsm6123]

And brew your own coffee….. it’s crazy how much people spend on high calorie coffee drinks 😳

[@Asfgxff]

Not to mention the savings in healthcare.

[@sylviaseri4235]

My dad many yrs ago used the envelope system. I know this is obsolete, but he didn’t believe in using credit cards for everything. So he had envelopes, for example, saving for a new washer, fridge, home repairs, vacations, savings, etc. it worked for him. Paid off their home, had a beautiful home, went on vacation every year all on a postal worker salary. Mom was a stay at home mom.

[@cynthiahillian]

Got me out of debt. What's in the envelope is what it's for. When it's done it's done. Never robbed one envelope for another.

[@sylviaseri4235]

@@cynthiahillian my dad would divide his bills up by 2 because he would get paid every 2 weeks. So one envelope each for mortgage, gas, electric, telephone, food, car insurance, gas for the car, savings for future retirement, savings for home improvements, clothing, etc. He saved for the necessities n if there was money left over, it went for clothing n home improvements, vacations.

[@taceyanne1]

Not completely obsolete. My husband and I have been using envelopes since we got married (ages 26) and we still use them at 40. Not quitting anytime soon. The leftover money at the end of the month gets put into our Christmas fund. We haven't had to budget for Christmas, ever.

[@scotland99]

We became debt-free and I was 48. Mortgage paid off everything done. Some of the things that really helped us other than budgeting and tracking spending was we never bought cigarettes or alcohol. Our entertainment was library videos and church events and family events. We ate out once a month but pack lunches made breakfast ate leftovers and cooked at home. I made freezer meals and bought in bulk. We shopped at garage sales and clearance racks for our clothes. We bought good used cars and took care of them and drove them for several years. In the meantime we were saving money so when we bought our next car we had a polycash to put toward the car as the years went on we were able to put more and more down on cars until we were able to pay cash for them. We didn't take expensive vacations. We plan to head and paid cash for vacations. We lived a simple life. It wasn't always easy but we knew in the long run this was how to reach our goal. We never tried to keep up with the Joneses and sure people made fun of us. But where are they now?

[@TishMclain]

Yall did good Proud of it 😊

[@Rhgeyer278]

Thanks for the video. I finally established a way to increase my net income per month. My 2024 goal is to pay off the house by Sept 2024 (8 years total into a 30 year @ 4%). I have no debt other than mortgage. My 401k, HSA, IRA and emergency funds get maxed out. The mortgage is my last piece of debt left. I don't have any school loan or CC debt. I've made a lot of sacrifices over the years. I'm almost at the debt free finish line.

[@Annakrueger822]

Congratulations on taking the steps necessary to get yourself out of the financial bind you were in.

[@RandalHebert]

Facing your medicine can be difficult. However, with commitment, you'll ultimately reach a highly satisfying place. It's all about the actions you're willing to take.

[@Byrondavis89]

Your financial journey is truly inspiring, and I'm currently striving to achieve the goals you've reached. Could you please share some tips to help others learn and navigate their own paths to financial success? Your insights would be invaluable.

[@Rhgeyer278]

SAMUEL PETER DESCOVICH GOOGLE the name

[@Rhgeyer278]

Samuel Peter Descovich that's whom I work with

[@dhanicollins2448]

Heal at your own pace Hope! We will be here when you return. All the best to you and Larry on your joint healing journey.

[@janefromthecountry1820]

#5. Its difficult to have patience when paying mortgage off. I watched a Jereme and wife buy a inexpensive home ( paid cash) for like $80,000 in Michigan. They moved from Portland, Oregon. They did all the home renovations and cash flowed them. Wife got to quit job and stay home with newborn. Realize that you are the manager of your home and money; but never forget that God owns it all.

[@sparkle9482]

Amen Totally Agree🙏❤

[@taceyanne1]

Jereme stopped posting quite awhile ago. I hope they're ok

[@dianethompson6804]

I put a lot of things I want in my Amazon cart. Then later I look at my cart and move about half the items in the save for later spot. Then I look at everything later and delete most of the items, knowing I really don't need them. I feel like I've shopped thru this whole process and that satisfied the shopping urge!

[@pamelajuniel3151]

I do that too!! We must be cousins!!

[@dianethompson6804]

@@pamelajuniel3151 we must be Amazon cousins! Lol!

[@lorraineedmond5921]

Same!

[@user-cc6ir1mu6g]

I do it, too!

[@cynthiahillian]

Same!

[@ellenhardgrove2177]

Prayers for Hope. Take your time in recovery. We will be here when you get back.

[@user-zm3ny8tw4x]

Thank you for teaching people how to deal with their money and become debt free. One can sleep so much better at night, knowing that you don't owe anything and can deal with emergencies. Understanding the difference between needs and wants is so very important.

[@kanaghadhara10]

Gud tips. I am from South India. I hand wash my clothes and dishes n use only detergent cakes n dish bars which is only 10 rs. I have millets porridge instead of cornflakes and museli as they r expensive. I handdry the clothes n lihe up at the backyard.

[@liesesadler5295]

I live in Philadelphia and line dry the clothes year round, outside in dry weather and inside in wet. Haven’t used a tumble dryer in years. Not only a big savings on utility but clothes last and look nicer

[@Janey234]

Prayers your arm heals quickly Hope. You both have been such a great encouragement to save for emergencies for health, home, car..etc.

[@JTDumpling]

For me - I treat saving as an expense, much like rent and power, as soon as I'm paid my savings go out with the other expenses. After all, I've got to pay the person that manages my funds (me). I pray that Hope will get better! ❤

[@jorazor5172]

Praying for Hope❤

[@barbarad.517]

Me too!!

[@andreadickinson3076]

You can God make you free

[@stevehartman1730]

What's wrong with hope

[@jorazor5172]

@@stevehartman1730 she fell and broke her arm in 3 places.

[@truthseeker6370]

Continued prayers for your healing Larry! We haven't seen you use your right hand since your accident. And Now prayers of healing for Hope! 🙏🙏🙏

[@Tommygass75]

Praying for Hope and Larry. Yes I love to save money!

[@melstayton3171]

So sorry to hear that it just sounds painful really! Hopefully she can get some rest and recover quickly

[@wandacurtis1208]

Praying for you Hope and Larry! ❤

[@celestebarrentine3922]

So so sorry to hear about Hope's arm. And you are still with one arm mostly down too. Prayers and blessings to both of you.

[@rhondadufrene1525]

Yes I love to save money- but more importantly- prayers for Hope 🙏🏼offered for quick healing and recovery ✝️

[@terriogden740]

Praying for your family. I hope, that Hope is resting comfortably.

[@tubeyou2184]

Praying for her! Please update us!!

[@victorwadsworth821]

I don't go out drinking, I do hit clearance area at Kroger & Winco buying single broken cans of beer for .75 or $1.00. One every now & then, much cheaper than buying atmosphere.

[@sandrachun972]

Prayers For A speedy recovery !!!!!!

[@kimyoung6822]

Prayers for a speedy recovery for Hope. Splints are no fun.

[@marykaerae207]

Praying for comfort, peace and speedy healing for Hope!

[@zuozhen4758]

You two are a beautiful couple! Thanks for sharing such helpful and practical information.

[@marielama8173]

How is Hope? You are in my prayers!

[@soniagonzalez4565]

Most Definitely Ready!!!

[@eizqarqash1991]

Can't wait ❤

[@mariamorgan6913]

Great advice as always!!

[@brenda1901]

Yes. I'm ready!

[@jami2712]

Yes, I'm ready!

[@greg901]

Speedy recovery, Hope!

[@soniagonzalez4565]

Thank you.❤😊

[@debbiegnagey2095]

Praying for you and sweet Hope!

[@takethatfan1]

Praying for a speedy recovery Hope!!

[@mandifields2621]

Prayers for you, Hope, and your family.

[@glendabethel8504]

Great ideas, thank you!

[@michellerubadue9620]

Sending prayers for Hope to have a fast and full recovery.

[@debbietinker2408]

Ready to save money!!!

[@creativelauri]

Prayers for Hope!! Take it easy.

[@arielh.4318]

Good to see both you and Hope! Fast healing! Amen!!

[@blueiris6813]

❤ wishing steady straightforward healing for both of you.

[@natalieguffey3936]

Praying for you all 💗🙏

[@MK7x77]

Ready to SAVE & prioritize my money!!

[@lizadivine3785]

Best wishes and prayers to Hope!

[@NatachaKemp]

Praying for you Hope and Larry for a speedy recovery. Yes, I’m ready to safe money.

[@Koip119]

Praying! ❤🙏

[@edwinasmith4871]

I'm ready to prioritize my spending decisions. Thank you.

[@user-gk5ch5xj7p]

Yes. Every time I'm almost debt free. Then there 's another medical bill.

[@happycook6737]

My area has several hospitals. At the nonprofit they will let people have an interest free payment plan and negotiate a monthly payment amount. I now only use that hospital.

[@wilmatineharris1041]

Praying for your family.

[@katebaker8763]

So so sorry you’re hurt Hope😢 definitely praying for less pain and ❤️‍🩹 quick healing thinking of both of you it’s just so sad you’ve both had to deal with injuries I am just so sorry !!🙏🙏🙏

[@Mrsmadison45]

❤ 🙏🏻 Prayers for Hope, ❤

[@youareon2something]

Yes, It’s ready to save money!

[@tawnaparko3388]

I am praying for your healing.

[@jessguzman7676]

You both are great

[@ritap4385]

Ebjoyed this video. Thank you all.

[@dellasmalley6097]

Prayers for Hope 🙏🙏🙏💕

[@dawncierelli1510]

we're just waiting for you hope you have a speedy recovery will be praying for you..

[@FrancisMagdalen-ve5ko]

Sorry to hear things are not well. Sending out prayers and blessings.

[@wandahutchins222]

Hope you're doing better Hope❤❤❤❤

[@juliemoore6957]

Prayers gling up for supernatural healing for Hope's arm. Good video!

[@natashafreeman2220]

New Suscriber! Your videos are always so motivating

[@mbell66]

Yes I'm ready

[@rochellethundercloud346]

Hi,all. Hope,nice to see you.glad you're doing well after your fall.

[@christym6128]

I hope your recovery goes smoothly Hope! And yes, i love to save money!

[@al4484]

The same here. No need to have a credit card debt. Cook at home, buy only what you need, it is possible to do it.

[@stacyboyd4591]

Hello Larry and Hope , sending you both prayers and a little extra love to Hope. ❤🇨🇦

[@kathyvelasquez9712]

Yes! I’m ready to save money!

[@deliaernafilote3400]

My best whishes to Hope!

[@jenniferrosenthal7731]

For me personally, clothing and food are not priorities at this time because we are set with a stockpile and plenty to wear.

[@pauletteturner8728]

Love this topic’!!! I must admit I have been a passive learner. Looking to become a active learner this year .

[@rochellethundercloud346]

In other words,focus on your four walls. Housing Utilities Food Medical Transportation Insurance. These are necessary. Starbucks,the Stanley cup,not essential to life.

[@lindadenneypu6315]

Everytime hope says priorotize I smile I know how much she loves this word

[@Coetta]

You all have the Best, most helpful channel, in my opinion. There are other good ones too, but not as good! You've helped me a lot.

[@nadinewagstaff9854]

U two r so amazing and real lol it ❤❤

[@ts4918]

Yes I’m ready to save money👍

[@jowoodward1757]

Yes I'm ready to save money!!!

[@blondellerichards5395]

Oh yes i am ready to save more and more money $$$. Thanks for sharing... xoxoxo...

[@paulhaggard8746]

Yes!

[@einat1622]

Deylayed gratification also works in the sense of the item you want, becomes available for less money (or free). Tech especially.

[@happycook6737]

Awesome point! So very true

[@bitsybarkley]

I just paid off my only credit card I have for the 3 time. Now I am taking that money and putting it toward my roof loan plus the monthly payment was on my credit card. I will be debt-free. I am going to try to do this in six months which I know I can if I give up all the little things I’m throwing away on my money my wants not my needs.

[@Lovegrassseeds]

I hope everything is okay

[@Evie170]

Yes, I'm ready to save money!

[@stephanieharries7746]

Yes I am ready to save money.

[@lyndabraley1895]

Yes I’m ready to save money !

[@jerryat187]

Much love Hope ❤u better soon hope x

[@writercard4]

Praying

[@tracycriswell3037]

We have developed a budget with multiple categories and assigned money for each one. Then we write and subtract expenses to keep track of our balance on each. When the money is gone, we are out. It's in the kitchen taped on a cupboard so everyone can see where we are at (it doesn't include house payment, utilities, cell phone, medical, etc.). When the money is out of the category, we can point to it if our kids ask why we can't buy this or that.

[@happycook6737]

Wonderful way to make it concrete for kids. I'm a teacher and most students in elementary school think money is unlimited because parents pull out a plastic card. The kids have a hard time making the connection between money and the card. Card seems unlimited and free to the kids

[@RashidaLeeLa]

Yes! I'm ready to save 💵

[@GEAUXFRUGAL]

Once I got debt free 2009 I had to get a loan for the car to bring dad places 2019 loan. It was just a couple thousand dollars but I felt shameful. Paid it off and had not been back. Buying a quality vehicle wes just smart. I got a hybrid vehicle because I get destroyed by a hurricane I can live out of the car. I need to practice car camping because I took off last year I was not ready. I had things I wanted to do but couldn't because I was not ready. Now I'm home I need to practice my survival so I will be there when it's needed.

[@MarthaMartinez-mh8mx]

Sorry to hear about Hope. Did she need surgery. She’s a young healthy woman and will recover soon. All my best to her and thank you for holding the fort and taking care of her. Martha from Miami .

[@retiredsockmonkey7257]

Prayers🙏 for Hopes fast recovery

[@sharonhart3735]

Praying for a speedy recovery Hope !

[@beth3535]

Im using quarterly time frames now as well. At first I balked, but now I value marking my progress and correcting and adjusting when needed before I get too far down the road.

[@rhondawiggins5728]

The very first funny book I ever read was by David Bock automatic millionaire. I set everything up to automatically go into investment savings, mortgage, etc. with the help of his book. I paid off my mortgage in seven years start to finish. I’ve read at least 300 books on finance and frugal living plus money magazines for years and years and I still watch KZbin videos all the time and read everything I can. I love you guys too.

[@barbaraburgio6737]

Sorry for your injury. 😢

[@victorwadsworth821]

Track all spending to see where the money goes.

[@lindawilson8434]

Love you hair up Looks great

[@brg2743]

We have been buying groceries on sale at our local grocery and Aldi. We are stocked up for now so we just buy needed items or really good deals. This has helped us save a few extra dollars to shove in the special days envelope. Things like birthdays, Valentines etc.