Many families are beginning to feel the impact of a slowdown in the economy. The impact is even greater on families with home mortgage loans.

It is believed that just over half of parents with home mortgage loans will have to restrict spending on their children in 2009 as living costs increase. Nearly one in two families are struggling to make ends meet and almost a third of those who are living comfortably now expect to cut backs on spending next year.

Cutting back on children’s expenses

Having a home loan often leads to reductions in the amount parents spend on their children for toys and clothes. Additionally, with more parents stating that holidays will see a cut back in 2009, holidaymakers may have to get a personal loan if they wish to take a well-earned break in the holiday season.

Using debt funding to meet expenses

For may people who spend more than they earn or just break even, the additional burden of a home mortgage loan means they have to resort to use debt to fund spending. Most seek a personal debt consolidation loan to get their finances back on track and ensure that spending starts to meet income.

Finding ways to earn more to meet expenses

Home mortgage loans require a regular income source for years that will keep paying of debts. In most cases salaries don’t rise significantly each year and this affects families who wish to maintain their lifestyle. Many mortgagees have resorted to starting a small side business, taken on a second job or another stream of income to supplement their main source of income. While most people like to stick to the same careers that are comfortable to them and feel too overwhelmed to put in the time to develop an additional revenue stream, based on the economy it seems that more people have no other alternative.

Prioritising short term and long term expenses

With most people relying on one or two fixed income sources, usually from jobs, a home mortgage loan requires prioritizing one’s long term and short term expenses. Does one buy the latest plasma TV now or do the bathroom renovation first? Here are some of the items that would have to be considered.

-Paying off medical bills

-College funding for your children

-Home improvements or renovations

-Paying off debt (with restrictions)

• Planning holidays

• Sending kids on excursions

• Buying a second car for the spouse.

Paying off debts with the proceeds from a home equity loan is good, but only if you permanently change your spending habits. Clearing off your charge cards only to start using them all over again will only get you into more trouble. It will take a commitment and some discipline on your part.

Changing spending habits

A large sized home mortgage loan requires some smart spending tactics. What exactly are people with a mortgage suggesting?

When going to the store don't assume the lowest priced product is the "cheapest." You have to look at a number of factors when choosing what provides the best value for your money. Factors to consider are lifespan, quality, and ongoing operating costs. Often the more expensive product will be a much better value and save you money in the long term.

Buy store brands. Selecting store brands over name brands often results in savings of up to 50% for the same quality of product. Most grocery stores have the price broken down to price per a smaller unit to be able to quickly compare the cost across a range of sizes.

Taking on debt in the form of a home mortgage loan will definitely have an impact on everyday living. Making sure you choose the right home mortgage loan is a vital financial decision that will affect you for the next several years.