Bargain Shopping
If you’re moving into your first place, you might be intimidated with the amount of “stuff” that you need. Part of that intimidation may include the amount of money you’re going to need to get going. Don’t fear, there are a million ways to bargain hunt. Take a look at:
Flea Markets and Yard Sales
Look in local newspapers and on community boards for flea market postings. These sales are usually held on a weekly basis in the same location and are like a constant yard sale. Don’t let the name mislead you—flea markets often have a huge collection of items that are anything but junky. From books to furniture to odds and ends, most flea markets carry a huge selection of items you’d never guess came from a flea market. You do have to have a discerning eye and be willing to barter to get the best deal but here you can find some terrific items at a very low cost.
Yard sales are smaller versions of flea markets, you can buy other people’s unwanted items at a minimal cost. The sales vary greatly based upon the individual. Check newspaper ads or keep your eye out for signs and look for sales that are selling something you may be interested in, such as “Women’s Clothes Size 10” or “Baby Furniture.” If a phone number is listed for a sale, call and ask what types of items are available to save yourself an unnecessary trip.
These sales take patience and time but can be well-worth the effort. Bring cash when shopping and remember, if you didn’t need it, it’s not a bargain! Only buy things that you were planning to purchase at a retail store anyway so that you won’t end up having to hold your own sale to get rid of all that junk.
Warehouse Stores
Warehouse stores are a great deal for people who buy a lot of the same foods or have a big family to feed. You will need to pay an annual fee to shop but you can more than make up for it if you shop just a few times. The rule for warehouse shopping is to only buy those items you know you can use before they expire. If you got a great deal on fruit but threw half of it away, you would have been better off just buying a smaller amount at a regular grocery store. You will do well buying items like paper goods, office supplies, home appliances and electronics. As with a regular grocery store, bring a list with you and stick to it so that you don’t end up buying things you don’t need.
Online
Many warehouse shopping websites can offer items at a lower price than you would find at a retail store. Some are bought in bulk, sent directly from the warehouse or have minor defects that prevent them from being shipped out to stores. In any case, the savings are passed onto you.
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