Moving into your first home? It can be an exciting, but expensive adventure getting the keys to your first home. However, before even getting your keys you must ensure you have the funds available to purchase the basics such as a bed, bedding, a fridge freezer, a cooker etc...
Remember - before you purchase anything you should sit down and work out how much you have to spend. If you plan to purchase anything on credit, it is essential that you are sure you can afford the weekly repayments, on top of all the other bills that come with living in a home.
Other things you need to will need to budget for when living in a home include:
- Paying your rent
- Council tax
- Home insurance
- Electricity/Gas/Water bills
- Food
- Furnishings
- Savings
- Clothing
- Travel costs
- A TV licence
- Internet bills
- Telephone bills (Mobile/Home)
To help we have produced an income and expenditure sheet [PDF] 
which once completed, will show you how much money you will have left over each month once you have paid out all your expenses.
Moneysavingexpert.com have produced a really useful budget planner to analyse your finances and then help you manage and control your cash.
If you are struggling to manage your money come and talk to us. We have specially trained staff who can help you get a greater control of your finances - we may even be able to help you claim for additional benefits that you are entitled to.
For more information speak to our Welfare, Benefits and Debt Advice Officer on 01724 279900.