Saturday, September 21, 2013

Love to Shop? Read This First.

Who doesn't love to shop? While there are many people, even in my own family, who would rather have dental work than go shopping, I have to admit to to be one of the many people who truly love shopping. But, the thrill of buying is tainted if I didn't get a great deal on the price. So for those of us who hunt for the perfect item at the perfect price--here are a few ideas:

  • Look online for price comparisons before hitting the physical stores, or better yet, get the item online at the price you want and stay out of the stores. You'll resist the temptation to buy other items by not seeing them.
  • Check out Consumer Reports' "Shop Smart" magazine. It combines the reliability testing of products done by Consumer Reports with tons of helpful ideas to get good deals on products.
  • Get to know the thrift/secondhand stores in your area. Find out what days they put new merchandise out and when they offer deeper discounts on certain color tags. i.e, 50% off on all blue tags on Sundays.
  • Don't disregard certain stores because you think they're too high end. Some of those stores have amazing sales--I just got a long sleeve really nice casual men's shirt for $15 at Lord & Taylor.
  • If you're willing to, sign up to get text messages of sales codes for stores. You don't have to carry any paper coupons with you (or, like most of us, forget to bring them in the store).
  • Make sure you check the return policy of the store in case you might not want that item. Many stores are changing their policies and you don't want to lose the money spent. 
  • For kids toys, garden tools, flower pots and outside furniture, try yard sales. They usually always have items for tons less than new.
  • Plan some purchases around the "tax free" week your state may sponsor in August before back to school. Taxes add up.
  • Lastly, be sure that any purchase is in your Spending Plan. The thrill of finding the perfect item for the perfect price sours quickly if you go into debt for it.