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Hope’s Debt & Savings Update – July, 2025

I’m very proud of myself. Here’s why…

Debt

Debt Description	October, 2023 Total	Interest Rate	Minimum Payment	Current Total	Payoff Date (Est)
Student Loans	$22,121	2.875%	$307	$19,036
CC - Apple**	$500			$0	May, 2025
CC - Frontier	$3,857	29.99%	$0	$0	May, 2025 - Closed
Dad - New Furnace	$2,600	0%	$0	$0	May, 2025
CC - USAA	$5,000	19.15%	$0	$0	May, 2025
CC - Sam's Club				$0	May, 2025 (again)
CC - Amazon				$0	May, 2025 (again) - Closed
CC - Southwest				$0	May, 2025
Painter				$0	May, 2025
CC - AMEX	$894	29.24%	$0	$0	Mar, 2024 - Closed
CC - Sams	$1,106	29.99%	$0	$0	April, 2024
Personal Loan #1	$2,500	0%	$0	$0	July, 2024
Personal Loan #2	$2,500	0%	$0	$0	August, 2024
CC - Wander	$1,630	29.24%	$0	$0	August, 2024 - Closed
CC - Amazon	$1,497	29.99%	$0	$0	September, 2024
Total	$44,206		$307	$19,036

I paid $1,925 to debt in July. (June’s debt update.) For the first time in 3 decades, I have under $20K in debt, no credit card debt, rather no other debt. My car is paid off and in good shape and I am in a great place mentally.

There is a light at the end of this very long tunnel. On top of that, I have money in the bank!

Savings

I have more money in savings than I’ve had in DECADES. And not only that, but I’m not touching it. I have no immediate plans for it (you’ve seen my Budget and the Buckets I’m using in Ally). I have literally not touched my Ally account since I initially opened it with $5,000 from the house sell.

I have WEEKLY automated deposits going to both my Ally account and my investments account. (For the record, these screenshots are from the end of July.)

Summary

Listen, I know it’s not where I need to be at my age. I get that. Truly.

But I can’t go back. I can go forward though, and I am. And I am proud of myself.

My attention is split…debt and savings. Maybe not the most efficient way to do it. But I am doing it. Debt is dropping steadily, savings is growing rapidly.

I literally went from $0 in savings, living on a shoestring to having close to $10K in savings accounts in just over 2 months. And as my income grows, my savings and debt payoff goes more quickly.

This Month

Now this month, I will spend some money. Princess and I are throwing Beauty a bridal shower. I budgeted $1,500 – most coming from my monthly “allowance” that I haven’t really touched. I’ll share the details on how that goes later as I’m still trying to figure everything out. As of today, I’ve spent the following:

$33 for invitations. I designed them on Canva and then had them printed there. I used stamps I had so not counting that expense.
$50 to hold the event space. I will pay another $200 before the event. The event space includes tables, chairs, table cloths, and serving ware.
$11 for my flight to and from ATL – yes, more points.
$196 for table decorations (flowers) and supplies for an activity.

I know I’m going to supply some food. And another game or too – thinking of the toilet paper to make wedding dresses. I’m honestly just feeling my way as I’ve never had a bridal shower or attended one. But it will be fun to experience this with my girls and celebrate Beauty!

Hope

Hope is a resourceful, solutions-driven online business manager with over two decades of experience helping clients streamline operations, manage projects, and grow their businesses through digital marketing and technology.

But life has a way of rewriting your plans.

A year ago, Hope made the decision to move in with her aging parents full time – a season she wouldn’t trade, even as it came with its own financial and emotional weight. Earlier this year, she lost her mother, and is now walking the tender, disorienting path of grief while learning what “forward” looks like from here.

Hope came to the Blogging Away Debt community in 2015 as a single mom raising five foster and adoptive children. She’s written through job changes, financial setbacks, and the bittersweet transition to an empty nest. Her kids are finding their footing in the world now – and so is she.

Rooted in faith and fueled by the same perseverance she’s brought to every hard season, Hope is ready to face her finances with fresh eyes and an honest pen. She believes that clarity, courage, and community can change the trajectory of anyone’s story including her own.

She lives in Austin, TX with her dad, loves adventures with her dog Addie, and is figuring out, one step at a time, what this next chapter is meant to be.

How to Avoid Buying a Lemon in a Large Car Market

by Semify

When buying a used car in a big market, the options can feel limitless—and risky. It’s easy to get overwhelmed or swayed by flashy deals and slick sellers, especially when demand is high and vehicles move quickly. Avoiding a lemon requires more than just a test drive; it involves careful research, legal awareness, and some eco-minded choices. By taking the time to check vehicle histories, understand contracts, and prioritize sustainable decisions, buyers can feel more confident. Whether you’re buying from a dealer or private seller, protecting your money and peace of mind is worth the effort.

Know the Size of the Market

Many buyers don’t realize how big the U.S. car market is. With over 121 million households owning at least one car, according to Hedges & Company, competition is fierce. That’s why sellers can be less than transparent when it comes to disclosing a car’s true condition. Don’t rely solely on listings or verbal promises. Make time for professional inspections, and run vehicle history reports that check for previous accidents, title issues, and flood damage. Even well-known dealerships can sell lemons if you aren’t careful. A few extra steps upfront can save you a lot of money in repairs later.

In such a saturated market, some buyers also fall into the trap of urgency. Limited-time deals and price drops may pressure you to act fast, but patience is key. Taking a day or two to consult a mechanic or review a vehicle’s full service history can make a major difference. Remember, the right deal is one that protects both your investment and your long-term satisfaction—not just your wallet today.

Understand What You’re Signing

It’s easy to overlook the fine print when you’re excited about a car, but a contract is not just paperwork—it’s your protection. A contract is a legally binding agreement between two or more parties that creates enforceable obligations. That means if something goes wrong later and it wasn’t clearly stated, you might not have legal recourse. Always read the contract thoroughly, and ask questions about warranties, return policies, and additional fees. Spending the time now can help you avoid losing money on terms you didn’t understand or agree to.

In many cases, buyers don’t realise that “as-is” sales mean they have little to no protection once the keys are handed over. Don’t hesitate to walk away if the seller refuses to provide a clear contract or answer your questions directly. A little hesitation now can save you years of regret and thousands of dollars.

Think About Long-Term Value

While the initial price tag matters, a smart buyer looks beyond it. Consider fuel efficiency, maintenance history, and environmental impact. Choosing a car with a reliable service record will likely cost less in the long run. When you’re evaluating your purchase, remember the role of recycling and energy use. According to House Grail, recycling a car battery saves up to 90% of the energy and greenhouse gas emissions compared to producing a new one. Choosing vehicles with a longer lifecycle helps protect your money and supports greener choices.

Also, take into account the availability and cost of replacement parts. Some cars are notorious for pricey upkeep or rare components. If your goal is to save money over time, opt for models that are affordable to maintain and service locally. Regular maintenance should be easy, not a financial burden.

In a large and fast-moving car market, it’s important to approach every deal with caution and preparation. Do your research, demand proper documentation, and evaluate long-term ownership costs—not just the sale price. From understanding legal contracts to supporting eco-friendly practices, each step you take can help reduce your risk of driving away with a lemon. Protecting your money is about more than negotiation—it’s about strategy and awareness.

Trust your instincts and prioritize transparency over convenience. Ask the right questions, seek independent advice, and don’t be afraid to walk away. With a thoughtful approach, you can make a purchase that brings confidence instead of regret. Spend your money wisely, and it’ll reward you in the long haul. Making the right choice today can lead to years of reliable, worry-free driving.