I’m always a little sad when garage sale season ends. Those signs on neon paper staked at main intersections are evidence that the weather is still warm enough to enjoy being outside. When the signs and garage doors come down, the hibernation begins.
Fortunately, there are other places to find good deals throughout the year. Thrift and consignment stores, pawn shops, and online sales like Kijiji keep bargain shoppers (like me) happy year round.
I have saved hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars shopping at these types of stores. One year I made a list of the things I had purchased second hand. Then, with the help of friends, I estimated what those items would have cost new. I found that I had spent less than one-tenth of the retail price.
Why don’t more people shop second hand? Don’t they like 90% off sales?
Besides saving huge amounts of money, there are other reasons I enjoy shopping second hand: I feel better about my kids staining a $3 outfit or breaking a $2 toy rather than a $40 one. If an item looks good after being used previously, chances are it will continue to hold up under wash and wear – unlike some new items. When I feel like shopping but don’t have the time to invest walking through large malls, a thrift store offers a one-stop shopping experience. And, I like helping the environment and charities.
Why am I telling you these things? No, don’t shop second hand. Go ahead and buy new. Spend the big bucks. You’re worth it.
But feel free to donate it later for me to enjoy at 90% off.
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