Friday, 5 June 2009 16:08
by
Jacki
There are things that you’re better off buying new, but there are items where used is sometimes just as good as new. This saves money and is even considered “green.”
Here is a listing of items that you may want to consider buying used and what to look for:
Vehicles
You’ve heard that the value of a new car depreciates the second you drive it off the lot. Used cars can allow you to get into the make and model that you want for much less. If you purchase them from a dealership, you can even purchase extended warranties.
Before buying a used car:
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Check used car history reports by the VIN number (there are plenty of resources online)
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Inspect the entire car’s body and interior; note any scratches, cracks, dents, etc.
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Check the engine or have someone who is familiar with cars come with you and check
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Check the heating and air-conditioner
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Insist on test driving the car before agreeing to purchase; don’t just take the person’s word for it, even if they are a friend
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Be suspicious about “too good to be deals,” they usually are for a reason
Furniture
If you’re like me, you’ve noticed that new furniture starts to look like designs from years ago. Why buy new when you can buy used or vintage for a fraction of the cost. Design is more about color and accessories than being new anyway. Plus you won’t have to worry about having the same furniture as one of your friends.
Tips for buying used furniture:
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Check online classifieds, auction websites, estate and garage sales
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It’s usually recommended that you buy pillows and mattresses new for sanitary reasons
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You may have to reupholster chair cushions, but it still can save money
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Look for furniture that you can sand and refinish
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Be careful not to buy furniture that requires too much upholstery or work which will defeat the money saving purpose
Clothes
This one is difficult for me. I have trouble shopping at used clothing, consignment, and thrift stores because they seem too overwhelming. What I do like is shopping online for used clothes where you can put in all your criteria and only get items and sizes you are looking for.
Consider this when buying used clothes:
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Look for items that still have the tags; online stores will indicate this as well
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Examine each article of clothing thoroughly, determine if the problems are fixable by adding a patch or by replacing a button or zipper
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Look for stores that are specific to babies and children; they have toys, furniture, and clothes
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Remember, don’t just buy a shirt because it’s $3, make sure you will wear it
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Always wash the clothes before wearing them
Other items that are great for buying used are books, CDs, and sometimes electronics if you are able to test them out first. You can also find great deals on refurbished items. We bought a very expensive brand of vacuum cleaner that had been refurbished for half the price of a new one.