dvirden:
Everyone has room to improve, MMM always comments how he does. But first, let's take a minute and celebrate what you have done!
Very nice work!!!!!! Car payment gone, student loan on the way out, extra on the principle, LED bulbs, Diet Dew gone (I am a former Diet Dew addict also, I have substituted ice tea, which I didn't realize was simply hot tea, but cold!) Excellent! You aren't just reading, you are living it! Keep it up.
It also sounds like you have the mindset, which is the key, and you will find your own ways to keep cutting. A couple thoughts:
- DirectTV gone, substitute with Netflix or similar for $10/month
- As mentioned, call cable to get lower rate. We called and pay $40 instead of $60
- Dryer - hang clothes
- Water - lower flow aerators on faucets (not as easy to replace as the shower heads, but still worth it I think)
- I would start to really read up on the investing side (if you haven't already). Think about the extra money you are putting against the house (depending on interest rate) vs. investing. The math shows investing is better over a long term, but there is an 'emotional' factor of paying off all debts, and the surety that your return is guaranteed as your interest rate. No 'right' answer.
Again, excellent work, not sure where you are age/retirement plan wise. But you have a very solid foundation starting!
