To save money Kathy Sullivan, a single mom with two kids, does do-it-yourself projects like repaving her sidewalk and resurfacing her tub. (Richard A. Chapman/Sun-Times)
Becoming a do-it-yourselfer, paying off her mortgage early and sticking to the philosophy that says, "If I can't pay for it yet, I can't buy it yet," have helped Sullivan as she focuses on training for a new career in computer forensics.
Sullivan lives in Hanover Park with her children Jordan, 9, Dawn, 11. She has relied on savings, unemployment compensation and severance pay since her job as a computer programmer at Sears, Roebuck and Co.'s headquarters was cut.
"I'm not afraid to try handiwork myself, because the Internet is a great reference tool," she said. "Plus, guys at the hardware store are always good with advice.
"Before I was divorced I had never done much, never even mowed or tried starting up a mower. Now I've repaved my driveway with concrete, laid asphalt, resurfaced my tub, changed light switches, installed closet trim and doors and shelving."
She saved a bundle on the tub project, spending just $45, compared with $1,300 for a new porcelain tub or $400 for a professional refinisher.
Sometimes she pays for installation. When she decided to install hardwood floors, she shopped at discounter Lumber Liquidators, where she found flooring on sale. Even with the labor charge, she estimates she saved more than $6,000 on the project.
Sullivan, who is looking for a job, said she's averse to paying interest and has focused on living within her means for many years. That gave her the leeway to be out of the job market while she retrained for a more secure career. "People can't believe I can afford to do so," she said.
"I've lived in small, affordable places, including studios, until I could afford a condo. I've made two residence purchases, each with a 15-year mortgage, but always paid extra towards the mortgage until it was paid off."
