Buy Used to Save Money

Do you want to save money?  That’s probably a silly question, because everyone wants to save money. Let’s think of a better way to say this. Do you want to try another way to save money?  I have a really simple suggestion – don’t buy new.

You’ve probably heard this advice when you were buying a car. A new car depreciates the minute you drive off the lot. If you buy used, you can negotiate a price that’s closer to its real value. Expand your thinking to other items and you could save money.

Let’s discuss furniture. Most people buy brand new furniture, but it doesn’t last forever – especially if you have kids and pets. What if you were to buy that sofa used – how much could you save? There are stores that specialize in selling gently used furniture, either on consignment or from furnished rentals. Much of this furniture is in great condition.

Many years ago (over 15), I was able to purchase our patio set – table for 6 with chairs, a chaise lounge and end table.  The cushions had seen better days, but the furniture was in excellent condition.  I paid $100 for all the pieces.  I still have this set in the yard.  All I had to do was purchase new cushions.

Let’s talk about kitchen items. Dishes, silverware and small appliances are always available at tag sales. Some of these items have never been used. Think of how many times you’ve been gifted with something you didn’t need. You can find brand new coffee makers, mixers, waffle-makers – still in the box with instructions – for sale cheap by your neighbors.

What about clothes? My assistant lost weight a year ago and didn’t want to spend a lot of money on new fall clothes. She went to a consignment shop and a thrift store and spent $40. What did she get? With $40 she was able to 4 pairs of jeans, 3 sweaters, 2 jackets and 4 long-sleeved knit shirts – all relatively new and in good condition.

Let’s be clear here, I am not talking about items that should have been thrown out. You can get good quality items. Depending on what you need, you can look at tag sales, consignment shops, websites, classified ads, etc.

I am not suggesting that you buy everything used.  There are some things that come to mind that you shouldn’t buy used – underwear and makeup just to name two.  But the next time you need something, consider the alternative.  Have you saved money by buying used?  Tell me about it.