Buying a home is the largest purchases most people ever make, requiring plenty of planning and an adequate amount of savings to apply for the down payment. Typically, down payments require anywhere from three percent down on FHA loans to 20 percent for conventional loans, meaning it often takes several years to save the appropriate amount. There are several creative ways to save without changing your everyday habits too drastically or having to work a second job.

1. Purchase a Used Car

Instead of paying hundreds of dollars a month for a car that you’re financing, purchase a used one instead that is still in working condition and will save thousands of dollars from interest rates. The extra cash will allow you to save an average of $4,000 a year and prevent losing money on a new car that depreciates at a quicker rate than a used one that you purchase.

2. Cut Coupons

Coupons are increasing in popularity for the hundreds of dollars saved just by using them on groceries and household products each month. Purchase the Sunday newspaper for the weekly inserts and subscribe to blogs that provide coupons and tips on recent deals. Work your grocery list around the savings each month and put the extra cash you save towards a down payment.

3. Only Use Cash

Several studies have proven that people tend to spend less money when they only use cash instead of resorting to debit or credit cards. Using cash will prevent overspending and make it easier to stay within your budget as it’s easier to see how much money you have and track your spending.

4. Limit Eating Out

Eating out at fast food restaurants or local establishments can cost up to 50 percent more than having a home cooked meal. Limit eating out to once every week or two and put the extra amount you’ll save toward your new home. Create a budget when eating out to avoid splurging.

5. Get a Roommate

Although it may feel like an inconvenience, renting out a room in your home until you purchase a house can work to be an extra $6,000 in savings without any extra work. It may feel uncomfortable at first, but will pay off in the long run with a larger down payment and lower interest rate on the new home.