Who doesn’t love to buy something shiny and new, whether it’s a piece of furniture, a new appliance or a piece of clothing? There’s certainly nothing wrong with enjoying a shopping score, but if you’re looking to save money, there are certain items that just don’t make money sense to buy brand new.
Several items lose value almost as soon as you’ve bought them, while others depreciate steadily over time. People often get rid of items that are new or in good condition. Either way, buying something used often extends the life of the item and puts money back into your pocket.
Here are a few items to consider buying used:
Cars
Most cars depreciate in value as soon as you drive them off the lot. Over time, your vehicle continues to lose even more value. Shopping for a used car is a better chance at saving money on a new ride.
Kids Toys
Kids love new toys, but there’s no reason you have to purchase them all brand new. Kids outgrow toys as fast as they outgrow clothes, and the cost of new toys adds up quickly. Buying gently-used items off findnflip can save you lots of cash.
Musical Instruments
Music is a magnificent art and anyone who wants to learn should have the proper instrument for their goal. However, instruments do not come cheaply. The better the quality, the higher the price. Buying second hand will save you lots of money. You can even check out second hand stores and the findnflip websites to find a deal.
Home or Office Furniture
You want to be comfortable in your home or office, but at what expense? A good couch, desk, chair, filing cabinet and bookshelves can run you between several hundred to thousands of dollars. And that’s not including things like a lamps and decorations. Yet people and businesses regularly get rid of home and office furniture. Buying second-hand can save you money while still bringing you quality furnishings.
Fitness Equipment
Getting in shape at home is a bigger priority during the COVID-19 pandemic than ever before. But fitness equipment can be expensive. These and many other fitness items can have you go broke before you get fit. Instead, check out second hand stores and findnflip to find these often barely used items at a fraction of their cost.
Bicycles
A brand new bicycle can cost you a lot, depending on style and brand. Yet, with a fresh coat of spray paint and a tune-up, an older bicycle can be made new at a much lower price point. Especially for kids’ bikes, which they outgrow so fast that it’s worth investing in a used bike to save money. But you can even buy adult bikes online at sites like findnflip. Spend the money you save on a brand new helmet, which you’ll need to be safe.
Kitchen Appliances
A kitchen is often home to numerous appliances, from instant pots and food processors to bread makers and coffee pots, all of which can cost more than you want to spend — especially if you’re buying more than one. Before you invest in something new, consider finding a used option, particularly if it’s an appliance that’s new to you and you’re not sure how often you’ll use it.
Recreational Vehicles
Recreational vehicles (RVs) have become very popular again now that the pandemic has made flying less safe. If you’re thinking of getting one, don’t start with the pricey new ones (they can start at $90,000) — instead, look for used deals. According to the website RVers Online, when you take into account depreciation, financing, maintenance and other costs, you can save as much as half the price of a regular RV by buying used.