Afternoon all,

Let me start out by saying I read a lot about saving and spending and items like that. I am very confused by all of it and would like some direction.

I currently have an excellent credit score of 750

I live with roommates and the only "debt" I have is my student loans

I do not have CC debt since it is paid off and do not have a car loan since I have been working and driving with the same car since HS.

I make 70k a year (which is OK by me)

here is my budget (per month)

Student Loans $400
Rent $790
Utilities $150
Car Insurance/Renters $103
Cell $50
Gym $30
Gas $150
TOTAL = $1673
which leaves me with $1,827 BEFORE putting into my ING but AFTER 401k contributions

thats pretty much it... I do have a 401(k) and by this time next year will have 18k in it or a little more. I contribute 8% of my paycheck to my 401k (before taxes) and save $800+ each month into my ING (after taxes). I do not have a ROTH IRA

I have 11k in my ING and do not know what to do now... some friends said I should low my saving to $300 a month and max out my 401(k) but I want to save for a house, ring, and other things coming down the road very soon.

I would love some direction on what to do!

Thanks!!!!!

You can talk to your accountant or financial planner, and they should be able to help you with your questions. On a side note, don't go and buy a house just yet, the real estate hasn't bottomed yet

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Never spend your money before you have it. -- Thomas Jefferson

Well I was going to talk with a finacial planner, but wanted to research on my own and get some more input before I do that. I do not plan on buying a home till I get married.

anyone else able to help?

Your in great shape, You should go ahead and fully fund a roth, then apply extra toward a future home purchase. I suggest you open an account with T. Rowe Price for an Mutual fund. I'm in the New Era fund, it has averaged over 15% the last 10 years. There's no garantees, but that is pretty good.

Also, you should read The Millionaire Next Door, you are very capable of becoming an millionaire early in life. Pay cash for cars and other big purchases. Always invest at least 10% of your income, never allow your lifestyle to exceed 80 to 85% of your income. Do not take on consumer debt of any kind.

A house is not an investment, it is a liabillity. Make sure your payment is no more than 25% of your take home pay and no more than a 15 year note. This will limit the damage. If you do these things, you will never stress over money and will become an millionaire early in life. Good Luck.

P.S. Read books, here are some suggestions:

The Millionaire Next Door
Financial peace by Dave Ramsey
Think & Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill
The Wealthy Barber
The Richest Man in Babylon

I agree.

It is always good to have some knowledge in every field that we involve in our day-to-day life. Along with that it is always advisable to take help from a professional.

Hence, find a financial planner who could help you in taking a wise step.

I like the idea of learning on your own...but I think you should use a mentor to guide you. Thus, try a financial planner or consultant to assist you further.

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New graduate with an emphasis in debt counseling.

That is the best thing to start with.