How frugal can we go?

amydoll83

I've read so many MFW diaries, and aspire to be there by Xmas next year at the latest.

I live with my OH and our 2 daughters (aged 2yrs and 1yr) and our dog, on the West Coast of Scotland, around 45mins from Glasgow. House prices are not massively expensive where we are, so we dont need a massive deposit but do have a figure in mind (£15-20k).

We moved from the South East of England at the end of July. We lived in a HA 1 bedroom flat, private rent for a 2 bed place were north of £800 monthly so we took the plunge and rented a 2 bedroom house 15 mins drive from my MIL, £450 a month. Lots of space, and I can work more favourable hours rather than 5 nights a week, which tbh were close to killing me.

The move has taken its toll on my savings which were at £2k before moving, but as I've only just started working again I dont think we've done too bad.
We also had to pay for the deposit and 6 months rent up front (which I think was reasonable given that neither of us was guaranteed work when we moved). We used a good bit of my matched betting bank (£3250) to pay this, so our rent isn't due again until January.

I have a small savings account maturing next month, so will pay another 3 months rent with that, and use the rest to clear a couple debts.

I like to think I'm frugal and when I have time a little later (when the girls are in bed) I will list what we do as a couple and as individuals, plus other sources of income. Hopefully over time I'll pick up a few tricks from you all, and be well on my way to reaching our ultimate dream....FIRE!