“Gently Used” Could Save You Bucks Big Time

August 27, 2008 By Tisha (Kulak) Tolar

Some consumers could never dream of buying used…that is until the economy took a turn for the worst and gas suddenly began to cost more than many families could afford. There is a growing interest in budgeting and saving money - just take a look around the internet to find the truth in that. While there are many different examples of how to save money, buying used items still, for many, has a negative connotation.

Here are some great examples of things to buy used to still get quality stuff, without the ridiculously high prices:

CDs/DVDs -  With the opportunities growing for using new mediums for music and video such as through the online market, there is little need to purchase new discs for audio and video. There is often a plethora of discs that can be found at yard sales and eBay for very reasonable prices. Instead of buying discs, rent them for free from the library.

Video Games - Much like the CD/DVD options, some libraries often rent the games for free or at a low cost. If you can find a local library where you can get your games, shop at a used game store where you can often trade in used games for different used games for no or low cost.

Books - Again, the library is a great way to save yourself $30 per book. Even small town libraries, like the one I frequent, carry the newest releases; though you may be on a waiting list for the newly released copies. Yard sales and the internet are also a great place to find gently read books for a dramatic savings.

Infant/Toddler Jeans - Little bitty kids who can barely walk or can’t walk at all are often pretty kind to a pair of pants or jeans, unlike older, more active kids who tend to wear out the knees or find different kind of stains to acquire. Shop at thrift stores or yard sales that have baby clothing. Most little kids grow out of great clothes before they have a chance to mess them up. Paying $15 for a pair of jean a little one may wear once is ridiculous, especially if you don’t even pay that much for your own adult-sized jeans.

Family Pets - “Previously Owned” may be a better way to describe this category. Many animal breeders charge top dollar for a dog or even a cat. Instead of going for the top of the line, go straight to the heart and adopt a cat or dog from an overcrowded shelter. The adoption fee is generally under $100 and includes neutering and spaying procedures, shots, and the money you spend goes right back into the local animal shelter.

Posted in books, borrowing, budgeting, children, debt, family, free stuff, frugality in motion, saving money

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