When it comes to saving money, it really can be easy to do. It isn’t only about saving money at your grocery or drug store, there are other ways to save on all sorts of things. Here are five that I recommend:
Use cash on large purchases. Often times, if you pay cash for large appliances (such as washers, dishwashers and even televisions), you can get a discount when you offer to pay them in cash vs. plastic. Even if you want to pay with your debit card, there is still a fee to the the store. So, stop by your bank, get cold hard cash and get ready to negotiate. We personally got an additional 5% off of the price of our television by doing this.
Implement the 48 hour rule. When it comes to buying things, often times it is a purchase on impulse. Rather than get it and end up with buyer’s remorse, go home and wait 48 hours. If you still are wanting it, then go ahead and spring for the deal — but remember to use cash to pay for it.
Cancel the home phone. Let’s face it, most people have cell phones. If you turn off your home phone and use only your cell phone, you can easily save a little money every month. Plus, you can avoid those pesky telemarketers!
Brown bag it. Even if you spend only $5 a day on a quick lunch out, that is $25 per week and $1300 per year! Imagine what you could do with an extra $1000 each year. That doesn’t mean you can’t dine out with a friend, just keep it in moderation. You can even take the money you’d normally spend on your lunch out and put it into envelope each week. You can use that to pay for the holidays, vacation or even to help eliminate your debt!
Take care of yourself. Health care costs are outrageous – we all know that. You know this even more so if you can’t afford health insurance. By eating healthy, cutting out smoking, increasing your water intake and getting lots of rest, you’ll be healthier all around. Not only will you feel better, you’ll stay out of the doctor’s office and save money.
There are so many great ways to save money. What is your favorite tip?
Erika says
I totally agree with the first tip! The year before last we bought a car using cash, and were able to negotiate LARGE discounts from nearly every dealer we negotiated with. Something about having the money RIGHT THERE makes salesmen seem even more anxious to do business with you (maybe because they know you’re definitely there to buy), and it made us feel even more empowered.
Mandy says
At the hospital I work with, if you pay your total bill off in full, they will take 20% off your bill. You must ask for it though, it isn’t just offered. I just knew they did it since I work there.
Most hospitals do this, or negotiate.
Sandy says
I went with cash in hand to pay the Ford dealer for repairs (about $1000) and they would not budge sooooo. on the card it went and they had to pay the fee. I will get the rewards (what little it gives) and pay it off at the end of the month. It would have benefited us both to deduct 5%. Oh well….
Nora says
A great way to save money on products you want is to wait for a daily deal or group buying offer to pop up. This can give you a great discount on something you really want!
A great site to use to find deals and sales in your area to save is http://www.dailydealpool.com. They’ll send you a daily email with the best buys around, ensuring you can save every day!