The Fastest Way to Save Big

One of the things that I didn’t discuss in my previous article, 10 Little Ways to Save Big, is buying pre-loved or lightly used items. Buying pre-owned items can save you, on average, 40% on clothes, furniture, even electronics - pretty much whatever you can think of that you need. Even though your local Good Will might not be the ideal place to do all your shopping, sometimes you can find great deals on great items, and maybe even cool vintage finds.

Looking for a new couch? Or maybe your child is moving out and you want to help them furnish their first place? Consider the local goodwill, or even check out nearby yard sales! Sometimes all those ugly old floral chairs need is a new cover. With a little bit of work, you can turn old and shabby into new and chic. Make a project of it!

If you’re looking for an expensive dress or suit that you’ll probably wear once, and stick in the back of your closet, instead of buying a brand new one, consider checking out your local consignment shop. Chances are, there’s someone out there who bought a dress that they never plan on wearing again, and instead of putting it in their closet they took it to the consignment shop - and they might be just your size!

Every so often, I’ll go to the local consignment shop with a bag of clothes I no longer wear (maybe gifts that weren’t really my style) and not only spend money, but also make money by selling my old clothes through the store.

The internet makes buying and selling pre-loved and lightly-used items even easier, with websites like Ebay and Etsy. Be wary about what you purchase online, and always remember to take into account the shipping costs to make sure that the deal you’re getting is really a deal. And of course, before you click that ‘buy’ button make sure what you’re buying is something that you really need.

What kinds of finds have you made recently? I found an awesome set of plain dishes that I spruced up with my own glass etching designs. Feel free to share your thrifty and creative ideas and insights!