When you’re trying to economize, buying the things you need secondhand rather than new can be a smart choice. Contrary to what some people believe, a used item isn’t necessarily a poor quality item. Some secondhand items provide great value. Here are some things that you should consider buying used instead of new.
Cars
A car is one of the best things to buy used. As you might know, the typical personal vehicle loses up to 30 percent of its value in the first year. This means that the resale price will be significantly lower than the original price. In addition, there is no meaningful difference in quality between a new car and a year-old car that’s been maintained properly. Choose to buy a slightly used car instead of a new model and you can save literally thousands of dollars.
Books, music CDs, DVDs, video games
Secondhand books, CDs, DVDs, and video games work just as well in used condition as they did when new, as long as they aren’t damaged.
Children’s clothing
Because kids outgrow their clothes so fast, they will probably get only a few months’ use out of clothing items. Why pay top dollar when you can pick up good quality used clothing at a thrift store or garage sale? Children can also be hard on clothes. But if you’ve only spent a few dollars, you won’t mind if the clothes get destroyed by rough-and-tumble play. The younger the child, the better this shopping strategy works.
Children’s toys
Many children outgrow or lose interest in their toys quickly. You can save money by purchasing good quality used toys instead of expensive new toys. Before buying, make sure all the parts are there and that the toy is appropriate for the age of the child.
Equipment for a new activity
If you or your kids are beginning any sport or activity that requires expensive equipment, you should consider buying used items. Why spend a lot of money on something that might only be used once or twice? Chances are you can pick up some good equipment from someone else who tried and rejected the activity.
For example, if your children want to take music lessons you could buy used musical instruments for them. Hobbies such as golfing, skiing and camping all demand expensive equipment that you’d be better off buying used.
You can always upgrade later if you find that you or your kids enjoy the activity. Another benefit of waiting to buy new and expensive equipment is that you will be more knowledgeable and you’ll be a better judge of what you need.
Golf balls
Here’s a tip for golfers: buy used golf balls. These are name-brand balls in excellent condition. They play the same as new balls but cost a fraction of the price. Even above-average golfers find them totally acceptable. If you frequently lose balls in the water or the rough, there is no way you should be wasting money on brand new golf balls.
Bookshelves, storage shelves, and other utilitarian items
If you’re buying shelves for the basement, a storage room, or the garage, consider buying secondhand. Used shelving can do the job perfectly well, even if it’s not very attractive. As long as the shelves are sturdy enough to hold what you need to store, who cares what they look like? In fact, any utilitarian item whose looks don’t really matter is something you could buy used with no regrets.
These are just a few of the things that can be a good value when bought in used condition. Of course, when you buy something secondhand there is always an element of risk. For instance, you might not be able to return it to the store for a refund. Additionally, you will often have to spend more time and energy finding the things that you want. Still, the difference in price between a brand new item and a used item can make the risk and the extra effort worthwhile.
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