If the one thing standing between you and your dream home is a down payment, Bankrate has some suggestions that may help you come up with one:

1) Pay off your Credit Card Debt. “Paying bills is not fun, but it definitely will help in your hunt for down-payment money. When you carry a credit card balance, the ever-accumulating interest charges mean more of your money goes to the card company each month. Keep that cash for yourself by cutting your debt load.”

2) Ladder CDs to boost savings. “Once you’ve got a few extra bucks, put it to work making more money for you.”

3) Special Programs. “There are many programs for home buyers in down-payment distress. Borrowers in a wide range of incomes, locales and professional groups may have access to aid from Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, the government-sponsored offices that buy mortgages and package them as investments.”

There are more tips at Bankrate, including getting a gift, asking for a raise, getting a second job, and tapping your IRA. You have options!—MEGHANN MARCO

10 ways to come up with a down payment [Bankrate]

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