How do you cope financially?

[Curiouscucumber]

Good equity in house, minimal savings but my take home salary wouldn't allow me to get a mortgage. Don't want to rent really as will be throwing away house equity. How much do you budget for water, gas and electric for a three bed house? It's just so overwhelming thinking about it all.

If you know how much do you spend on these things at the moment that could be you're starting point.

People cope financially by maximising their income and minimising their outgoings.

Have you considered how to improve your income? Have you taken into account any child support you would be entitled to, UC or child benefit. Can you get a better paid job or extend your hours?

There are lots of forums that will help with budgeting and reducing outgoings, money saving is the best. The most obvious way to reduce housing costs is to move to a cheaper area.

But at the end of the day if your share of the equity plus your income isn’t enough to buy a property, then you will need to rent. In your position I would definitely try everything to bolster my income so I stayed on the housing ladder. I have no idea if that is achievable or not. If it isn’t then make your peace with it.

Realistically a lot of people end up on increased benefits and with a lower standard of living after a separation.

How old are your kids?