In this episode of Money on My Mind, I dive into 17 powerful budgeting rules of thumb that will give you a clear roadmap for managing your money—whether you're just getting started or looking to refine your financial game.   From how much of your income should go toward a mortgage or rent, to the 50/30/20 rule, emergency funds, cars, student loans, and even how to handle windfalls, these are the guidelines that will keep you on track without overcomplicating things. I also share how these rules evolve as you build real wealth and why financial freedom often changes the "game" you're playing.   This is practical, actionable advice that you can apply today to build discipline, avoid common money traps, and set yourself up for long-term success.   Key Talking Points of the Episode   00:00 Introduction 00:53 Rule #1: Mortgage payment ≤ 25% of take-home pay (exceptions up to 30%) 03:01 Rule #2: Home price = 3–5x annual gross income 03:37 Rule #3: Refinance if rates drop ≥ 1% 04:20 Rule #4: Save 1% of home value annually for maintenance 05:10 Rule #5: Rent ≤ 25% of take-home pay 05:44 Rule #6: Pay off debt vs. invest: when each makes sense 06:55 Rule #7: Total debt ≤ 36% of gross income (DTI ratio) 07:22 Rule #8: Student loans ≤ starting salary 08:00 Rule #9: Cars: cash preferred, or follow the 20/4/10 rule 09:17 Rule #10: Lifetime cost of a car = 3x sticker price 11:11 Rule #11: Replace car when repairs > car's value 11:46 Rule #12: Emergency fund = 3–6 months of expenses 12:52 Rule #13: The 50/30/20 rule: needs, wants, and savings/investments 13:35 Rule #14: The 30-day rule for big purchases 14:14 Rule #15: Food budget = 10–15% of gross income 15:10 Rule #16: Windfalls: spend 1–5% on fun, invest the rest toward goals 16:37 Rule #17: Estimate annual income: hourly wage × 2, add 3 zeros 17:32 Why these rules matter more in the beginning stages of wealth building 18:00 How financial freedom changes the rules beyond budgeting basics 21:53 Final thoughts: mastering each stage of wealth and knowing when to level up   Quotables   "If you can stay within these rules of thumb, you're going to do really, really well—even if you're not perfect."   "A mortgage should be a blessing, not a curse."   "Discipline is what separates those who win with money from those who struggle."   Links   The Roadmap to Financial Freedom https://budgetdogacademy.com/order-now   Budgetdog https://budgetdog.com

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