Getting Stuff For Less

I would argue that our society today is overly materialistic. We have access to an almost unlimited supply of reasonably priced goods. Experts say that we are exposed to hundreds of advertisements each day, from billboards to newspaper ads to television and even movie theatre advertising.

All of this consumerism can lead to financial trouble, especially for one income families, many of whom have fewer funds available for "keeping up with the Joneses." But here I offer a system for keeping your spending in check. You can get the goods and services you most need and want without breaking the budget. Just follow these simple steps:

1) Before each purchase, ask yourself: "Do I need this item, or do I just want it? How much do I want it? Does it fit into my current budget? Can I save up for it and purchase at a later date? This will weed out many unnecessary items. Ask your husband and kids these questions when they come you wanting something as well.

2) For needs and wants that make it past #1, is there a way to get the item for free? Libraries are a great resource for books, magazines, CDs, videos, and other items. If your library doesnt have the particular item you want, ask about interlibrary loan. Some services can be free with a little elbow grease. Try to trade services with others. Offer piano lessons in exchange for lawn mowing, or a home-cooked meal in exchange for housecleaning. Also check for rebates and internet freebies (read all fine print to make sure the item is really free). Keep your eyes and ears open for people who might be giving away the very item you are looking for (often, office furniture or computer equipment may turn up this way).

3) How long can you wait? If you wait long enough, the item may eventually turn up at the price you are looking for. Several weeks of yard sale shopping may do the trick, or a going-out-of-business sale. You never know how it will happen, but it usually does, if you're patient. My general guideline for maximizing grocery sales, for example, is to have enough regularly used non-perishables stored that I can comfortably wait for a good sale. Often, sales come in 4-6 week cycles.

4) For more immediate needs, comparison shop before committing to any purchase. For groceries, use a price book to keep track of low prices. For major purchases, read the ads and call around. Ask questions to make sure you're getting what you really want. Ask about unadvertised sales or discounts, and whether the price is likely to drop soon. Try unconventional stores; for example, buying clothes from a bulk warehouse store or wrapping paper from an office supply store. I've done both.

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