8 Times Dave Ramsey's Advice Is Actually Really Good

Dave Ramsey is a polarizing figure in personal finance. While his tough-love approach to debt and spending doesn’t always resonate with everyone, there are times when his advice is worth considering.

Whether you’re looking to buy a home, get out of debt, or simply manage your finances more effectively, Ramsey’s practical, no-nonsense tips can help you stay on track and make smart money decisions.

Let’s take a look at eight times Ramsey’s advice is actually really good.

One of Ramsey’s core recommendations is to put down at least 20% when buying a home, and this is sound advice for anyone looking to avoid costly mistakes in the long run. 

A larger down payment means less debt, a lower monthly mortgage payment, and the avoidance of private mortgage insurance (PMI). It also gives you a better chance to build equity quickly, ensuring you’re not financially stretched.

Ramsey strongly advises against going into debt to make a home purchase. This advice should be followed closely, as taking on additional loans or credit to secure a home can lead to financial strain.

If you don’t have enough cash to close on the property, it might mean that the house is outside of your budget. Avoiding unnecessary debt helps you maintain financial flexibility and keeps you from overextending yourself.

In today’s competitive real estate market, some buyers may be tempted to skip the home inspection to speed up the process or make their offer more appealing. Ramsey firmly advises against this.

A professional home inspection can reveal hidden issues that could cost thousands of dollars in repairs. This advice is particularly relevant in older homes, where plumbing, electrical, and structural problems may lurk behind a seemingly perfect facade.

One of Ramsey’s signature pieces of advice is to create and stick to a budget — and he’s right. A budget is a fundamental tool for gaining control over your finances. 

It helps you track where your money is going, set spending limits, and identify areas where you can save. Ramsey emphasizes the importance of telling your money where to go rather than wondering where it went.

Ramsey’s emphasis on saving is another area where his advice shines. He recommends building an emergency fund to protect yourself from unexpected financial setbacks like job loss or medical emergencies.

This buffer can help you avoid going into debt during tough times, giving you peace of mind and a safety net. Regular saving also allows you to take advantage of opportunities, whether investing in stocks, purchasing a home, or taking a vacation without guilt.

One of the cornerstones of Ramsey’s financial philosophy is becoming debt-free, and this advice holds up well. 

Paying off debt reduces financial stress and frees up money that can be used to invest, save, or spend on other things.

Ramsey’s “Debt Snowball” method, which involves paying off the smallest debt first and then moving to larger ones, is an effective way to build momentum and stay motivated. 

This strategy helps many people break free from the vicious cycle of debt and gain greater financial independence.

Ramsey’s advice to live below your means is timeless, and anyone looking to improve their financial situation should take it to heart. 

Living frugally doesn’t mean depriving yourself; it means prioritizing your spending and cutting unnecessary expenses.

By living on less than you earn, you can save more, invest wisely, and avoid the lifestyle inflation trap, where spending increases as your income grows.

Ramsey often emphasizes that financial freedom isn’t just about personal gain; it’s about being able to give back to others. Once you’ve built a solid financial foundation — by budgeting, saving, and eliminating debt — Ramsey encourages generosity.

This doesn’t always mean donating money; it can also mean giving your time and talent to help others. Volunteering for a cause you care about or using your skills to mentor someone can be incredibly rewarding.

While Dave Ramsey’s advice might not work for everyone in every situation, these tips offer a solid foundation for anyone looking to achieve a stress-free retirement and financial stability. 

Whether buying a home, paying off debt, or trying to live within your means, Ramsey’s advice can guide you toward smarter money moves.

So, before making your next financial decision, ask yourself: Are you following practical money moves for homeowners and savers that will set you up for long-term success? 

By adopting some of these strategies, you’ll be better prepared for retirement and beyond.