Built in 2004 and lovingly maintained, this 1,158-square-foot home is move-in ready! In addition to 3 bedrooms and 1.5 baths, you’ll find inviting, sundrenched living spaces characterized by contemporary charm. And just wait until you see the fully fenced backyard oasis—there’s a covered deck, a patio, garden beds, an outbuilding, and plenty of space to bring your ideal vision of home-sweet-home to life! Located at 1725 S Sheridan Ave Tacoma, WA 98405 and just down the street from the upcoming Tacoma Link station and close to dining, medical facilities and much more, this turnkey treasure is listed for $325,000. 

An opportunity like this one doesn’t come around every day—you have plenty of immaculate space to enjoy both inside and out, yet you’re incredibly close to top city conveniences! Showcasing eye-catching curb appeal, this gem boasts lush, mature landscaping that you can enjoy the moment you arrive home. A cute front porch greets you, and just inside, the open-concept layout immediately welcomes you in. Tall ceilings, bamboo floors, and large windows await in the living area, a blissful haven filled with rejuvenating natural light. 

The floorplan seamlessly flows into the kitchen, and bar-style counter seating looks into this spacious and expertly designed space. Huge counters ensure that cooking elaborate homemade meals, having baking marathons, or meal prepping for the week ahead are all as easy as possible, and generous cabinetry promises ample storage space for all of your kitchen essentials. Stylish light fixtures add fashion-forward flair to the scene, and you can begin to infuse your own personal style into each corner of this delightful space as soon as you move in! The same is true of the dining room—this gathering space is just down the hall, and you could easily transform it into another living area, a home office, and more. 

Upstairs you’ll find 3 bedrooms that feature wall-to-wall carpet, just adding to the inviting, cozy feel of each retreat. Have an extra room? You could use it as a fitness center, a hobby room, a play area… possibility awaits! 

In the fully fenced backyard, a whole other world of potential opens up. The covered back deck is ideal for grilling up dinner and relaxing rain or shine, and you can admire your lawn and gardens from this shaded perch. When you want to get some vitamin D, head out onto the patio, or put your green thumb to work tending to the neat, raised garden beds. Additionally, an outbuilding is ready to store all of your outdoor tools and toys. 

Living in Tacoma’s Hilltop Neighborhood 

At 1725 S Sheridan Ave Tacoma, WA 98405, you’re in a wonderfully convenient area of Tacoma and you’re just down the street from the new upcoming Tacoma Link station that will take riders to Downtown Tacoma and the Tacoma Dome Station where you can hop on the Sounder Train to Seattle or the Amtrak train all the way to Portland or up to Vancouver, B.C. Bus lines are less than a block away, and you are merely blocks to local parks, schools, St. Joseph medical facilities, and so much more! Residents also love being close to so many of the best coffee shops, cafes, restaurants, and bars in town, and your options for dining, entertainment, and shopping expand even more thanks to your close proximity to Downtown Tacoma. Those who commute further to work are also sure to appreciate being just a 2-minute drive to connect to Highway 16 and Interstate-5. 

Interested in learning more? Click here to view the full listing! You can also contact REALTOR® Sharon Chambers-Gordon online here or give her a call/text at (253) 970-4049.

Boasting an expansive 2,732-square-foot layout that includes 6 bedrooms, 3 baths, and generous living spaces, this North Tacoma home presents a unique opportunity! This residence is currently being used as a rental, and it’s conveniently just 1 block from the University of Puget Sound. This property also features a huge fenced backyard, as well as a 2-car garage, RV parking, and off-street parking. Located at 941 N Alder St Tacoma, WA 98406, this residence is listed for $549,950. 

Built in 1930, this home still offers much of its original charm while featuring smart updates. A 20-year roof, updated wiring, a gas fireplace, and a replaced sewer line are all in the mix, ensuring this gem is ready for its next chapter. Arrive home to a picturesque scene, and just in through the front door, this home’s sprawling layout invites you in. Gorgeous hardwoods flow from the living area into the dining room, natural light cascades in through several wood-wrapped windows to create a cheerful atmosphere, and a statement-making fireplace anchors this welcoming scene. 

The large kitchen is just steps from the dining room, and this bright space offers a large layout to spread out in! Find tons of storage space in timeless cabinetry, enjoy meal prep on spacious counters, and hang out on bar-style seating to enjoy a snack or your morning cup of coffee. 

This home’s palatial layout also includes 6 comfortable bedrooms, giving you versatility in use and abundant potential. Each bedroom haven offers something a bit different, from cozy carpets and beautiful hardwoods to stylish color palettes and crisp white trim. Have an extra room (or a few)? You could easily use extra space as a fitness center, office, hobby room, and more!

This home’s beautifully appointed baths all offer not-to-miss amenities as well—timeless finishes, fashionable color palettes, and standout features like cute tile flooring, a skylight, built-in storage and more all await. 

One of this property’s most impressive features can be found in the fully fenced backyard, a secluded oasis of entertaining, play, and natural beauty. Grill up dinner out on the back covered deck, host get-togethers on the patio, play games on the large flat lawn, and put your green thumb to work in the garden—there’s more than enough room to grow your own farm fresh fruits and veggies here! Even more convenience and storage await thanks to the 2-car garage, RV parking, and off-street parking as well. 

Living in Tacoma’s North End

At 941 N Alder St Tacoma, WA 98406, you’re in a prime North Tacoma location and only 1 block from the University of Puget Sound campus. You’re also only 0.3 miles to 6th Ave, and here you’ll find transit, nightlife, dining, shopping, and more. Popular places like The Red Hot, Silk Thai Cafe, Asado, Gateway to India, Shakabrah Java, Legendary Donuts, Bluebeard Coffee Roasters, and so much more are all easily within reach here.

You’re also wonderfully close to other top Tacoma destinations, including the historic Proctor District. Just about 1 mile away, in Proctor you’ll find spots like Metropolitan Market, Safeway, Chalet Bowl, Blue Mouse Theatre, Cactus Proctor, Europa Bistro, Viva Tacoma, Teaching Toys & Books, The Pacific Northwest Shop, Peaks & Pints Craft Beer Store, and many other shops, restaurants, and services. 

Interested in learning more? Click here to view the full listing! You can also contact REALTOR® Sharon Chambers-Gordon online here or give her a call/text at (253) 970-4049.

Characterized by vintage charm and modern convenience, this 1940-built treasure is tucked away in North Tacoma’s highly desired Proctor District. Not only are Proctor’s amenities just half a mile away, but you’re also only a few blocks to University of Puget Sound. This home’s 1,134-square-foot layout includes 2 bedrooms, 1 bath, welcoming living spaces you’re sure to love spending time in, and even a separate studio and storage shed out back in the fenced and level backyard! Located at 3910 N 14th St, Tacoma 98406, this move-in ready home is listed for $360,000. 

The front door opens up to reveal a spacious main living room that’s sure to become home to years and years of cherished memories! There’s enough room for everyone to relax and unwind, and rejuvenating natural sunlight pours in through large windows, shining the spotlight on gleaming hardwood floors. Simple elegance makes it easy to move right in and begin unpacking, infusing each corner with your own signature style! 

The layout seamlessly flows into the dining room, a uniquely appointed haven of entertaining. Captivating decor elements warm up the space, while an eye-catching light fixture that hangs from the dramatic ceiling steals the show! Serve up meals with ease—the immaculate and thoroughly updated kitchen is right around the corner. Stainless steel appliances shine with efficiency, while crisp cabinetry offers stylish storage for all of your kitchen essentials. Open shelving is perfect for showing off treasured dishware and other decor, and details like the subway tile backsplash take this kitchen’s overall aesthetic up a notch! A large pantry provides even more room for storage and organization. 

Both of this home’s bedrooms offer loved ones privacy and plenty of space, and ceiling fans in each room help to keep things comfortable along with this home’s A/C. The bath showcases an ideal blend of vintage-inspired elements and contemporary updates, leaving you with a fresh space ideal for daily wellness routines! 

Head into the backyard where a whole other world of possibility opens up. You’ll find a storage shed behind the 1-car garage, and a separate studio is bursting with opportunity. Transform it into your art or music studio, or use it as an office space or for a quiet place to work on hobbies. Either way, it’s got electricity and internet and is ready to go. The fully fenced and level backyard offers up even more delightful potential—a huge patio rests along the neat lawn, and you have your very own outdoor oasis to bask in all summer long. Invite everyone you know to memorable weekend barbecues, lounge out and sunbathe in the peace and quiet, and have fun putting your green thumb to work if you choose!

Living in Tacoma’s Proctor District (& Close to University of Puget Sound!)

At 3910 N 14th St, Tacoma 98406, you’re close to shopping, restaurants, parks, schools, transit… and more! University of Puget Sound is 0.3 miles away, and nearby Proctor amenities are only 0.5 miles away. Grocery shop at Metropolitan Market, Safeway, or at the weekend farmers market; grab dinner with friends at Cactus, Europa Bistro, Viva Tacoma, and many more eateries; shop at Compass Rose, The Pacific Northwest Shop, Teaching Toys & Books, etc.; enjoy an evening out at Blue Mouse Theatre or Chalet Bowl!

You’re also only 0.5 miles to 6th Ave, another hub of dining, shopping, services, etc. Getting around from here is easy as well—the #11 bus picks up along North Proctor Street and goes all the way to Point Defiance and Downtown Tacoma. 

Interested in learning more? Click here to view the full listing! You can also contact REALTOR® Sharon Chambers-Gordon online here or give her a call/text at (253) 970-4049.

An opportunity like this doesn’t present itself very often—this Old Town condo with a townhouse-style layout shows off easy living with unobstructed views of Commencement Bay and beyond! The 945-square-foot layout includes 1 bedroom, 2 baths, and well-appointed living spaces that make it easy to entertain with ease. Not only can you enjoy stunning views from both levels of this condo, but you even have 2 balconies that offer even more opportunity to take advantage of this haven’s idyllic setting! Located at 2006 N 30th St 12 Tacoma, WA 98403 and merely steps from parks, restaurants, shopping, Ruston Way and more, this condo is listed for $424,950. 

This treasure’s eye-catching exterior is a delight to arrive home to, and the exquisite accents hint at the rich history of Tacoma’s iconic Old Town neighborhood. As soon as you step inside this residence, the inviting scene envelopes you in a wonderfully timeless atmosphere characterized by a tasteful blend of classic design and contemporary elements. 

Shimmering hardwood floors and crisp white millwork infuse the open-concept living area with elegance, and your living space just expands thanks to French doors that lead out onto the balcony. Sunbathe on a warm summer’s day, sip your morning cup of coffee while you rejuvenate out in the fresh air, and catch up with friends as you enjoy front row seats to one of the Pacific Northwest’s most incredible views! When things heat up over the summer, retreat inside to enjoy refreshing A/C (and heat during the winter). Ultimate comfort is yours! 

From the living room, the layout seamlessly flows into the charming dining space, and the kitchen is right around the corner. Top-notch efficiency and magazine-inspired style ensure that time spent meal prepping is a joy. Granite counters, custom cabinetry, stainless steel appliances, and thoughtful design elements (like a backsplash that shines with style!) are all wrapped up into this delicious package. 

When it’s time to unwind, head upstairs to find the spacious bedroom. There’s plenty of room for a sitting area and desk, and you can snuggle up in bed with views of the Puget Sound right out your window! A neat barn door slides open to reveal the ensuite bath, closet space, and laundry area (you don’t have to worry about hauling loads of laundry up and down the stairs!), and you also have outdoor access from here as well. Even more storage space can be found under the stairs and in the attic. 

Living in Tacoma’s Old Town Neighborhood

At 2006 N 30th St 12 Tacoma, WA 98403, you’re in a highly desired North Tacoma neighborhood with outdoor opportunities and city convenience right at your fingertips. Ruston Way is 0.2 miles away (and much closer as the crow flies), making it easy to head to Jack Hyde Park on the waterfront or explore the Ruston Way path, a paved trail that runs all the way past Point Ruston to Dune Peninsula and Point Defiance. Along the way, you’ll pass by iconic Tacoma dining, including destination restaurants like Harbor Lights, C.I. Shenanigans, RAM, Katie Downs, Duke’s Seafood, Lobster Shop, and more. You also have easy access to plenty of options along North 30th Street—places like The Spar, Starbucks, Ginkgo Forest Winery, Anthem Coffee & Tea, Old Town Park (home to the Job Carr Cabin Museum) and more are all right here. 

This particular location also gives you easy access to the rest of North Tacoma and Downtown, and getting around the city and region is easy from here. You can hop on Schuster Parkway and be on Interstate 705, Interstate 5, and Highway 16 in under 5 minutes. The Tacoma Sounder Station is only a 6-minute drive away (or a 23-minute bus ride away—yes, there’s a direct bus from this condo!), making it easy to hop on the Sounder Train straight into Downtown Seattle. 

Interested in learning more? Click here to view the full listing! You can also contact REALTOR® Sharon Chambers-Gordon online here or give her a call/text at (253) 970-4049.

Raising Girls was founded in 2017 with a mission to provide South Sound girls with care bags of personal items that testify to the joys of “girlhood” and show the care and respect their community feels for them.

We are committed to empowering young girls to recognize their own potential by building and encouraging self-respect. We provide necessary hygiene products to girls throughout the South Sound, wherever the need is greatest, partnering with local organizations committed to serving our youth.

If you would like more information on how you can donate or get involved, please reach out!

 RaisingGirls.org      RaisingGirlsOrg      RaisingGirlsOrg      RaisingGirlsOrg

Easy living is all yours with this expansive 1,928-square-foot one-level condo in a prime University Place location. In addition to pristine living spaces designed with entertaining in mind, this stand-alone home includes 2 bedrooms, 2 baths, and even charming outdoor spaces right along a greenbelt. Located at 5323 W 57th Av Ct W 28 University Place, WA 98467 and close to places like Whole Foods, Trader Joe’s, the University Place Library and more, this residence is listed for $425,000. 

When you step in the front door, this home’s elegant entryway invites you in and immediately makes a memorable impression! The formal dining room is a dream for those who love to entertain, and hosting everything from special occasions and dinner parties to holiday feasts are right at home. The well-appointed kitchen makes it all possible, and is conveniently right around the corner. Rejuvenating natural light fills the kitchen, shining the spotlight on the generous layout that includes tons of storage in handsome cabinetry, large counters ready for meal prep, and even a dining nook and the potential for bar-style counter seating. 

The layout flows right into the living room, and here, vaulted ceilings, views out into the greenbelt, and a stately fireplace characterize the space. Thanks to a calm neutral color palette and impeccable care over the years, new owners can easily move right in and begin decorating to make the space their own! 

This home’s spacious layout also includes a flexible office, a guest bedroom with a full bathroom, and a master suite complete with a 5-piece ensuite bath. The master bedroom is a definite must-see retreat, with its exquisite vaulted ceilings, its walk-in closet with built-in organizers, and its sumptuous ensuite bath that has its very own soaking tub. Wellness routines and luxurious bubble baths are definitely in your future here! 

When the weather warms up, you even have a couple of cute outdoor spaces that are all yours to enjoy. 2 patios mean that you can barbecue up dinner all summer long and enjoy al fresco dining out in the fresh air. There’s plenty of potential here for those who love to do a bit of gardening, too—put your green thumb to work cultivating raised garden beds and flower pots filled with vibrant blooms! You also have views of a scenic greenbelt for additional privacy, and extra off-street parking promises convenience. 

Living in University Place 

At 5323 W 57th Av Ct W 28 University Place, WA 98467, you’re in a prime University Place location with top city amenities right at your fingertips! Bridgeport Way is just minutes from home, and here you’ll find everything from shopping and restaurants to services and community events. Places like Whole Foods, Trader Joe’s, Safeway, Walgreens, MultiCare, the University Place Pierce County Library, and more are all at your fingertips. 

Interested in learning more? Click here to view the full listing! You can also contact REALTOR® Sharon Chambers-Gordon online here or give her a call/text at (253) 970-4049.

This extraordinary retreat is tucked away in Longbranch on 8.3 picturesque acres, presenting a truly rare opportunity! Featuring a palatial 3,556-square-foot layout with 4 bedrooms (which includes 2 master suites), 4 baths, open-concept living spaces, and even guest suite potential on the lower level (complete with its own separate entrance and kitchenette), this Pacific Northwest gem presents timeless style and premium amenities at every turn. Located at 18806 71st St Ct SW Longbranch, WA 98351 and just 7 minutes from the Longbranch Marina, this 2000-built dream home is listed for $599,000. 

Nestled in a park-like setting that offers views of the water and mountains, this lovingly maintained gem is truly a joy to arrive home to each and every time. Classic design is framed by mature landscaping and a lush natural setting, and the column-accented entryway offers a memorable first impression. This home’s welcoming layout unfolds to reveal an open and inviting scene that makes it easy to spend time with loved ones in, and abundant natural light contributes to the cheerful, rejuvenating feel of the space. The main living area boasts huge picture windows, a see-through fireplace, and ample room to transform with your own cherished furniture and decor. 

The layout flows right into the dining area and kitchen, a well-appointed haven of both fashion and function. A huge granite island is the perfect space to gather around when you’re entertaining guests, and the large counters promise ample meal prep space! In addition to handsome cabinetry that offers easy access to kitchen essentials, a walk-in pantry provides even more expertly designed space to stay organized in.

The main level includes a master suite, and this resort-worthy retreat is the epitome of luxury! Enjoy snuggling up in bed with tranquil views of nature and a cozy fire roaring in the fireplace, and you even have access to your very own deck. An ensuite bath is also at your fingertips, and here, the corner soaking tub is a definite highlight! Each additional bedroom offers loved ones and guests alike luxurious privacy, and the lower level features the 2nd master suite (complete with its own bath that boasts heated floors and a heated towel rack!). The lower level also has its own kitchenette and a family room with a separate entrance, offering you wonderful flexibility in use.

This property’s outdoor amenities are just as impressive as its indoor offerings, and of the 8.3 acres that you have all to yourself, 1.5 acres of this space are conveniently cleared for your lawn and gardens. Natural beauty and captivating vistas await at every turn, and you have 4 decks to take in the photo-ready views from. Fruit trees, lovely landscaping, and a koi pond make up this idyllic scene—peace, privacy, and Pacific Northwest paradise all await! 

Living in Longbranch

At 18806 71st St Ct SW Longbranch, WA 98351, you’re in a wonderfully secluded area that lets you escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. You’re only 7 minutes from the Longbranch Marina, a definite perk for those who’d like a convenient place to moor a boat. This particular location is an absolute dream for outdoor enthusiasts—not only do you have easy access to boating and other water sports, but attractions like Joemma Beach State Park, Penrose Point State Park, and Haley State Park are all easily within reach. Highway 16 is a 30-minute drive away, and here you can access all of the larger city amenities of nearby Gig Harbor. 

Interested in learning more? Click here to view the full listing! You can also contact REALTOR® Sharon Chambers-Gordon online here or give her a call/text at (253) 970-4049.

Pride in ownership shines from every corner of this 2,398-square-foot Puyallup gem. In addition to 4 bedrooms and 2.5 baths, this residence is brimming with beautifully designed living spaces that are ready for entertaining and living the life you’ve been dreaming about! Nestled on a cul-de-sac in the Cobblestone subdivision, this beauty also offers you the opportunity to live in a picturesque residential setting while still being merely minutes to some of Puyallup’s top amenities. Located at 16310 E 88th Ave Puyallup, WA 98375, this move-in ready South Hill home features a brand new roof and is listed for $380,000.

Pristine, artful landscaping and a welcoming front porch await as you pull in the driveway, and when you step inside, this home’s light-filled atmosphere beckons. The warm color palette coupled with all of the natural sunlight creates a sundrenched oasis that you’re sure to love spending time in whether you’re visiting with guests or lounging on the couch reading a good book. The living room opens up into the dining area, making it easy to transition from cocktail hour to dinnertime!

The spacious, gourmet kitchen is right around the corner, and this masterfully designed space is brimming with everything you need. From the shimmering granite counters on the center island and stainless steel appliances to all of the ample storage space that you’ll find in generous cabinetry and pantry, the kitchen is an absolute dream! Whether you need space to spread out on in order to make your famous homemade recipes or you need a stylish haven to invite guests into, the kitchen is sure to become the center of daily life. Plus, the adjacent dining nook offers yet another sunlit space to enjoy.

In the family room, a haven of relaxation and comfort awaits. The beautiful tile and wood-wrapped gas fireplace and TV alcove anchor the space, and laid-back evenings spent with the company of loved ones and catching up on your favorite TV shows are made all the more lovely here!

The main level features a versatile bedroom/den, and head upstairs to find even more flexible space. A large loft area at the top of the stairs could easily be transformed into an entertainment center, play area, office space, or fitness center, and you’ll find the same fabulous potential in the rest of the bedrooms. The master bedroom is especially worth highlighting—this indulgent retreat offers luxury at your fingertips! Stunning recessed lighting details line the ceiling for a captivating, glowing ambiance, and the huge walk-in closet and ensuite bath are just the cherry on top of this dynamic space. The 5-piece ensuite bath boasts standout features like a dual shower and soaking tub, making wellness routines all the more refreshing!

When the weather warms up, this property’s fully fenced, storybook backyard is ready to offer vacation-like weekends without ever having to leave the comfort of home. The patio is absolutely perfect for barbecues and al fresco dining, and vibrant flower baskets and a strand of firefly lights would give this space an instant refresh! Take in the view of the lush garden, a definite treat for garden enthusiasts who love spending sunny afternoons out in the tranquility of nature.

Living in Puyallup

At 16310 E 88th Ave Puyallup, WA 98375, you’re tucked away in a cul-de-sac and merely minutes to shopping, dining, schools, services, and more in the South Hill area of Puyallup. Schools are just a couple minutes from home, as are popular spots like WinCo Foods, Fred Meyer, Walmart Supercenter, and a long list of other conveniences. The Sunrise Village shopping center is right there as well, and here you’ll find Target, LA Fitness, PetSmart, and several eateries, services, and other shops!

Interested in learning more? Click here to view the full listing! You can also contact REALTOR® Sharon Chambers-Gordon online here or give her a call/text at (253) 970-4049. 

Vacation-worthy living awaits with this 1,488-square-foot home nestled right along Crescent Lake! Enjoy having the main house with one bedroom and one bath, along with the additional living space that offers privacy and flexibility. Lovingly maintained, this home was completely renovated right down to the studs in 2011, and new owners are sure to love the rich hardwoods, quartz counters, recessed lighting, and fine finishes! All of this is yours, plus a gorgeous fully fenced, professionally landscaped yard on scenic Crescent Lake. Located at 2302 NW State Game Rd NW Gig Harbor, WA 98332, this one-of-a-kind residence is listed for $455,000.

Boasting a fresh and cheerful atmosphere to call home, this haven delights the second you step inside. Not only did this home undergo a thorough renovation in recent years, but features like surround sound with in-ceiling recessed speakers ensure this gem is ready for the future! Snuggle up in the main living area alongside the cozy fire and enjoy visiting with loved ones or relaxing for a movie night.

The open-concept layout flows right into the sunny dining area, and here you can take in views of shimmering Crescent Lake as you sip your morning coffee. The open kitchen makes it easy to serve up meals, whether you’re basking in the natural light in the dining nook or enjoying an al fresco meal out on the deck. The well-appointed kitchen offers a stylish, contemporary design, and dark cabinetry showcases an eye-catching contrast with sleek appliances, quartz counters, and an exquisite backsplash design.

In this home’s bedroom and bath, you’ll find a tranquil, comfortable atmosphere to rejuvenate in. If you need more room to spread out in, there’s even an additional living space that’s separate from the main house! This sweet retreat has everything you could need or want, from a kitchenette to dreamy views of Crescent Lake.

When winter melts away and springtime arrives, this property’s fabulous amenities begin to shine even more. Take in the fresh air from the large covered deck, and find a hot tub on the slate patio. Imagine winding down after a day of fun on the lake with a luxurious soak in the hot tub! Crescent Lake is conveniently motorized, meaning you can zip around the lake in style. And when you’re on land, take advantage of your fully fenced, professionally landscaped yard that offers plenty of room for cultivating the garden of your dreams!

Living in Gig Harbor’s Crescent Lake Area

At 2302 NW State Game Rd NW Gig Harbor, WA 98332, you’re surrounded by nature while still being just minutes from city conveniences. Connect to Highway 16 in just 8-10 minutes, and all of the shops, restaurants, and services along Borgen Boulevard are just a 8-minute drive from home. Here you’ll find places like Costco, Target, YMCA, Albertsons, The Home Depot, and much more. You’re also only an 8-minute drive to Downtown Gig Harbor, making it easy to enjoy the iconic waterfront!

Interested in learning more? Click here to view the full listing! You can also contact REALTOR® Sharon Chambers-Gordon online here or give her a call/text at (253) 970-4049.

Saving for Your Vacation

Every year there are friends and family who really want to take a vacation, but they do not have the funds, or they would like to make it debt free. Here are some helpful ways to save for that much needed vacation.

Set up a Dedicated Savings Account

This is a good sign to show that you are serious, and it will ensure that you have the funds when you are ready to book airfare, hotel, car (if needed), and have spending money on your trip. This separate account information should be shared with all who are going on the trip (even kids who get an allowance, so they can contribute to the fund). It is important to do some research on where you would like to go; once the venue is confirmed you can gather information on the costs of the hotel or resort, airfare, etc. If you are traveling internationally, you need to budget the cost of passports for everyone. You also may opt to wait until your trip is close to pick up a debit card from your bank. This will keep you from being tempted to spend from your vacation account.

Set Up Automatic Transfers

Automating your savings is a great way to get to your goal. If you plan to save weekly, here is what the math looks like: $20 per week adds up to $1,040 over the course of a year, and if more than one person is saving the same or close to the same amount it can add up to a wonderful vacation budget. Automate it and forget until you need it.

Team Up

People from the Caribbean have a system called “partner” or “susou” where a group of friends or family commit to paying a certain amount into an account paid to someone called the “banker”. Each person is committed to sending the same amount on a previously agreed date every month. This is known as “throwing a hand”. This money can add up really fast, and by the end of the year (or whenever your vacation timeline is) you will have enough. This has become much easier with apps like Zelle, Venmo, and Cash App where monies can be transferred to another account in a matter of minutes. Pooling funds allows you to afford nicer vacation destinations, rent transportation together, share the cost of food (if you are not going to an all-inclusive resort), as well as tips and other miscellaneous spending like mementos.

Get Everyone Involved

If you have kids, include them in the planning and let them have a stake in their own vacation. If they get an allowance have them set aside 30% towards vacation. It could also be fun to have everyone save loose change in a jar, count how much there is each week, and go together to the bank at the end of each month to deposit into your vacation fund account. This gets everyone excited and motivated as they see the money grow.

Factor in the Essentials

Traveling abroad? Everyone needs a passport. Factor that cost in. Need new tropical attire? Factor that cost in – swimwear is a vacation essential. Checking luggage? Factor that cost in. Write down everything you can think of that you will spend on and work them into the budget so you are not blindsided by any major expense. Pull out your old suitcases and see if they can take another trip or if you will need new ones. Check to see if anyone has outgrown walking/hiking or water shoes. Budget for travel insurance, especially for international travel.

Sell Something

There are many online stores where you can sell almost anything from home. Look around for sell-able items that you have – special event dresses like those worn to a wedding, prom, or gala, shoes you have only worn once to a special event, clothing in good condition that you no longer wear, furniture, and novelty items. Every bit adds up and that helps to grow your fund. Get kids involved and organize a yard sale in the spring. Donate anything that does not sell to a charitable community organization (possible tax deduction!).

Where to go

There are many options for where you can go on vacation. You may have friends who own a timeshare and you can accompany them by invitation or rent the accommodations from them. With most timeshares you will need to provide your own food so pooling resources definitely will go a long way. Another option is staying at a hotel where there are many restaurants close by to get daily meals. That is where those savings will come in handy because food costs will be a major expense. Another option is to stay at an all-inclusive resort where once you pay the upfront costs, you don’t need to spend anything out of pocket for food, drinks, and some amenities like their spa. There may also be some activities that you will have to pay for such as going scuba diving, parasailing, or horseback riding in the ocean. Saving for an all-inclusive resort may take a while longer because they tend to be pricey; however, if you pay for accommodations and food beforehand, the other expenses are airfare, if you are flying, or a car and gas if you are driving to your destination.

In 10 months you can be enjoying that much needed vacation with family and friends and making new and long-lasting memories!