You can find pretty much anything you need used. Some examples of what we’ve bought used are: clothes, dishes, home decor, baby items, appliances, lawn mower, car, camera, camera lenses, bed frame and couch.
I know for some buying used isn’t as appealing, but you’d be surprised by you can find, especially with the resources available. And just because you buy used doesn’t mean you can’t get really nice quality or trendy stuff. Often times, you can find items that are practically new.
Plus, buying used has great benefits.
First, you prevent waste. Buying used helps prevent the waste that comes with purchasing a new item - either through production, transport or packaging. And you’re helping to ensure an item is used to it’s full potential.
Second, you save money. In fact, you can save A LOT of money. When we moved into our new home, we needed several appliances. Through buying used, we got a range, dishwasher, washing machine and dryer for the grand total of $125! (Two of those items were free!) And we got quality appliances that are in great working condition!
Even if you’re in a good financial place and don’t NEED to save money, we all like a good deal! There are a lot of things you can do with the money you save on a good deal. Put it toward retirement or give to charity!
Here are some tips for buying used:
Read the description. Sounds obvious, but sometimes it’s easy to skim. Carefully reading the description can answer a lot of questions before you move to the next step in the buying process. As you read, jot down thoughts or questions that come to mind so you know what questions you want to address if you contact the seller.
Ask questions. It’s good to make sure you have all the information you need to know you’re making a quality purchase, especially for bigger items. Ask things like: How old is it? Why are you selling it? Have you had any problems with it? Were you happy with it? What if I get it home and it has a problem?
Touch and feel the product. When you’re looking over an item, it can be easy to be quick in your assessment. Don’t be afraid to give something a thorough look over before agreeing to buy it. If you can, test it out.
Be patient. If you’re in the market for something, get a good idea of what you’re looking for, the price you want to pay and have the patience to wait for it. In our experience, once we start watching for something, the perfect item pops up within about two weeks.
Set up an alert. A lot of websites, like eBay or craigslist, have the option to set up alerts on your computer or phone to make the looking process easy. You can create a customized search for an item on the website or a phone app and be alerted every time an item that fits your shttp://www.oursimplynaturallife.com/2011/04/reducing-waste-in-your-life.htmlearch criteria is posted. It makes looking for an item a breeze.
Now that you have some helpful info about buying used, here are places to look for what you need:
eBay - Most people are familiar with eBay. Here you’ll find used clothes, used books, used electronics, used movies, etc., etc., etc. eBay is great because it is an international website, thus you have access to stuff all over the world. The downside can be the fact that you probably will pay shipping and you usually can’t touch and feel the product. However, one plus is that through using eBay and Paypal, you have some buyer protection.
craigslist - Craigslist is a free, on-line local classifieds forum. You can get just about anything on craigslist. Craigslist makes some people nervous because they’re concerned about the safety of meeting with strangers or getting ripped off. The important thing here is to use common sense. Meet in a public place when you can or don’t go alone to someone’s home. Remember to ask questions and check out the product your buying. Yes, criminals are out there, but the majority of interactions don’t have any problems.
Freecycle - Freecycle is an Internet-based community recycling project of reusing and sharing usable goods. All you have to do it join your community’s local group and ask for or watch for what you need. I’ve found my Freecycle network is pretty slow and not a viable option for getting stuff, but I have friends that have great Freecycle networks in their community and have landed some great finds.
On-line swapping sites - These are just another example of how people can utilize the internet in creative and helpful ways. There are countless websites for swapping books, movies, clothes, handbags, and more. Basically, if you do a search for any item and add the word ‘swap’, you’ll find a website for just that purpose. When it comes to these sites, it’s proper etiquette to give back and not just be a taker.
Consignment stores - Another great option is consignment stores. You can find furniture, clothes, accessories, toys, movies, household items and more. Find out when they have sales and you can get even better deals. Plus, if you shop at consignment stores like Goodwill or the Salvation Army, your money is going to a good cause.
Consignment events - many cities have community events that provide the opportunity for consigners to come together at one big consignment event. These are great opportunities to find a variety of items. Opening days are usually busy, as people want to be first in line for the best stuff.
Garage sales - Can’t leave these off the list. Garage sales can be a great way to find used items. And the beginning of spring is the most popular time of year for them.
Your social network - With all the social networks, such as Twitter and Facebook, you have instant access to a lot of people. You’d be surprised what becomes available with a little shout-out to your friends. But remember, don’t spam your friends, it’s not nice and a little fairy dies every time you do.
So, what are your favorite tips or places to buy used?
1 comment:
I think you covered everything!! I was really impressed with the Just Between Friends sale that I'd heard so much about. There was lots of variety and good deals on everything from games to clothing to strollers and more.
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