5 Strategies for Saving Money By Buying Used

Buying used items sometimes has a negative stigma attached to it, but in reality it’s a great way to save money and stretch your budget farther.

The most important thing to remember when buying used is to do your homework. You need to know what the retail value of the things you’re buying, and you need to know what to look for when it comes to any kind of damage the used product might have. If you’re paying 90% of what the product is worth new, you’re probably not getting a good deal. Likewise, if the thing you’re buying is about to break beyond repair, you’re better off waiting or just biting the bullet and buying new.

In today’s world, you have a ton of options when it comes to buying used. Below are just a few ideas to help you get started:

Craigslist

If you’re in the market to buy locally, Craigslist is the place to be. If you need something, chances are you can find it here. Before you buy, however, make sure you keep a few ground rules in mind. First, never send money anywhere. Cash-in-hand is the rule, as there are tons of people online looking to get you to send them some free money.

Second, never buy anything that you haven’t seen working. If you buy a computer monitor, make sure you see it plugged in and attached to a computer. If you buy a lawnmower, have them start it and push it around a bit. If you’re buying a vehicle, have a mechanic that you can trust look at it. If a seller is reluctant to do any of these things, chances are you’re going to want to rethink your purchase.

Thrift Stores

You may not get that “new purchase” rush buying secondhand items at a thrift store, but the rush that you get when you stumble upon a $100 camera tucked on a shelf for $10 is just as good, if not better! When you’re thrift store shopping, pay extra attention to the things you buy to avoid things like holes, tears, missing pieces, and stains.

Garage Sales

Want a fun, laid back way to get out of the house and do some bargain hunting? Try getting up early and hitting some garage sales! These are great places to find amazing deals, as people would usually rather give something to you for a steal instead of hauling it back into their house at the end of the day.

Trades

If you want something your buddy has, don’t hesitate to ask if they want to trade it for something of yours. This is a great way for both of you to get rid of something you might not want and acquire something you do without either of you spending a dime!

Buying Used From Friends

If you’re in need of a certain item, ask around and see if any of your friends or friends’ friends have one they’d like to get rid of. That way, you get the thing you needed, they get some cash, and the also get some free space! Everyone’s a winner.

Essentials