Newbie here!

PlasticMoose

Hello all! I've been lurking for a while and finally decided to start posting.
I've just taken on a mortgage which thankfully is well within my budget, but I still have some CC debt and a student loan so all of it put together has made me think I ought to start out on the right foot so that a) I don't get into trouble, and b) so I can attempt to clear the CC debt, and then work on paying off the mortgage as fast as possible.:D

urg123

Hi PlasticMoose

I think that getting a grip on your finances now is a really good idea. I took on a mortgate over two years ago but I really didn't have an idea of how much it would be to run a household! You also don't realise how much just ongoing maintainance costs.

I have a much better idea now but have learned the hard way - I have over £17K worth of debt and I am determined to get rid of it. My suggestion to you is to start with an SOA see here: http://www.makesenseofcards.com/soacalc.html. It will give you a good idea of where you are spending your money on and how much you can afford to use on paying of the debts. Once you've paid off the debt you can look at saving for a rainy day and overpaying on your mortgage.

Good luck

URG

Shineyhappy

Hi Plastic,

Welcome to the DFW boards! I think once you start a mortgage clearing debts is a priority, especially come remortgaging time!

There are loads of tips and tricks on the MSE website from every board. I hope you pick up some excellent advice and if you want anything specific then feel free to ask, there is usually someone awake!