11 tips about spending.
Released May 22, 2009
MURFREESBORO, Ark. - You may think you've exhausted all the ways of stretching a dollar, but there may be a few more methods to consider, says Robbie McKinnon, Pike County extension agent with the University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture.
She offers these spending tips.
- Find the best buy. Look in several places - a catalog, newspapers, two or three stores, including a secondhand store, and garage sales. Spend time looking before you spend your money.
- Use wisely. Make the things you buy last longer by taking proper care of them. Follow manufacturer's instructions when available.
- Substitute. When you buy something, ask yourself if a lower-priced item will do the job just as well. Use store brands and generics instead of name brands.
- Share it. Stretch resources by sharing with neighbors and friends. Buy in bulk, carpool and share with friends.
- Find it free. There are some items that are available for free. Use public parks and playgrounds instead of expensive health clubs for exercise. Use the library.
- Rent or borrow it. When you need something for a short time, consider renting it rather than buying it.
- Trade or swap. Trade or swap things you no longer use. Trade talents and skills with neighbors. Can you trade time babysitting for help with home repairs?
- Make it. Sometimes it's cheaper to make something than to buy it, but it means you must use your time and skills.
- Watch "phantom" money. Keep track of the money in your wallet. Stick to your shopping list and avoid impulse buys.
- Don't buy it. Ask yourself if you really need this item or there's something you want even more. Learn to say no to yourself, to your children, to salespeople and to things you feel pressured into buying.
- Don't go shopping just for fun.
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http://www.uaex.edu/news/may2009/0522stretch.htm
Editor: Elizabeth Fortune, (501) 671-2120, efortune@uaex.edu
