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Zillow at 10pm. Regret by 10:03pm.
Tips on saving for a downpayment
Dollar Dad
April 16, 2025
In partnership with
Read time: ~1.5 minutes
Welcome Back, Fellow Parent
A few months ago, I found myself scrolling Zillow again, super late at night…
We’re planning a move this year and, as you probably know, house hunting is part dream, part chore.
It’s super fun to house shop right?! Until you pause and do the math on a 20% downpayment…and promptly close the app with a sigh.
Because how do you even begin saving for a house when you’re already juggling school tuition, extracurriculars, and those $150 Costco runs that somehow happen every week?
So I grabbed my trusted spreadsheet and built a plan.
This week, I’m breaking down exactly how parents can save for a downpayment without overhauling their entire lives.
It’s not magic — but it is doable. And it starts with a few key steps:
Figure out how much you actually need. (Hint: 20% isn’t your only option.)
Set a monthly savings goal that fits your timeline and your current budget.
Cut costs where it matters most — think meal planning, secondhand gear, and trimming sneaky bills.
Earn a little extra with flexible side hustles (baby gear flips, nap-time freelance gigs, pet-sitting, and more).
Avoid the common traps — like dipping into your savings or skipping your emergency fund.
And keep your money in the right place so it can grow quietly in the background.
No shame if you’re starting from scratch. No pressure to sprint to the finish line. Just a clear, parent-friendly plan to help you build the future you want — one small, smart move at a time.
Already started saving? This might be the boost you need to stay on track, adjust your plan, or finally feel like your goal is within reach.
You don’t need perfection. You just need a plan that works for your life — chaos, car seats, and all.
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