What we learned about Money
What We Learned About Money (and Each Other) When Buying Our First Home
Buying a home as newlyweds wasn’t just a financial step—it was a faith journey, a learning curve, and a big milestone in our marriage.
When my husband and I got married, we quickly realized we were very different when it came to managing money. I was more conservative, focused on saving and staying organized. He, like many people in the U.S., was used to using several credit cards and carrying debt. Let me be clear: I don’t hate credit cards. When used responsibly, they can be powerful financial tools. But at that time, they were hurting his credit score, and it became a challenge when we tried to buy the house we wanted.
We hit a wall—emotionally and financially. But that wall became a doorway.
A Turning Point at Church
We decided to attend a money management seminar at our church, and we also signed up for pre-marital counseling. These were life-changing decisions. They didn’t just help us understand money better—they helped us understand each other better.
Talking about finances as a couple takes trust, and that trust takes time. At first, we kept things simple. We opened a joint bank account and committed to funding it consistently. From that account, we paid for all house-related expenses.
Budget Meetings and Dream Building
We started having regular budget meetings—not the boring, stressful kind, but real conversations about our goals, our priorities, and how to make our dreams come true.
It wasn’t perfect. We had to unlearn old habits and develop new ones together. But little by little, we made it happen.
We brought God into every part of the process. We prayed over our decisions, asked for wisdom, and trusted that He would lead us. We also continued to give to our church during this time. Even when it didn’t make “sense” on paper, we believed that generosity was part of financial stewardship—and God was faithful.
What I Want You to Know
If you're thinking about buying a home, especially as a couple, here’s my advice:
Talk about money early and often. Don’t assume you’re on the same page—get on the same page.
Seek guidance. Whether it’s a church seminar, a coach, or a trusted mentor, don’t do it alone.
Build trust through small steps. A shared account, a monthly check-in, a clear goal.
Keep God in the center. Your money is part of your marriage. Invite Him into it.
We’re not perfect, but we’ve come a long way. And today, every time I walk through the front door of our home, I remember: this house is more than a building. It’s a testimony.
Are you and your partner trying to get on the same page financially? Let’s talk. I help couples organize their finances, break free from debt, and work toward their shared dreams. Book a free clarity call with me here: call with Vanessa Franco
