A large down payment on a home can make the difference between a mortgage you can afford and one you can’t. We know saving for a down payment can feel overwhelming – but we’re here to help! In this ongoing series, we offer a simple tip each issue on how to save for that down payment and meet your homebuying goals. Today’s tip: Try free public transportation in July and August—and save on car maintenance.

We love our cars. But we don’t necessarily love the expense of gas, regular oil changes and other routine maintenance—not to mention the often exorbitant costs when something unexpected goes wrong. So why not try out RTD – and let someone else do the driving and write those big checks?

If you’ve been toying with the idea of switching to public transportation, July and August are the perfect months to try it out. During this time, RTD is offering zero fares across its system to reduce ground-level ozone. It’s called “Zero Fare for Better Air initiative,” enacted by Colorado Senate Bill 22-180, in partnership with the Colorado Energy Office. The way we see it, there are “zero” reasons not to give it a go—and keep your money where it belongs: in the bank.

CLICK HERE for the RTD Trip Planner – type in your destination and from where you’re leaving, and it will tell you the route options for you to choose from!

CLICK HERE to find out how much you could be saving in gas and parking by using public transportation.