Strategic Spending

There's nothing worse than making a purchase at one store, only to find it for less someplace else. Or buying something one week only for it to be marked down the week or two later. Every Bargain Shopper possess two basic qualities: patience and persistence. If you aren't normally very good at finding good deals, all you need to do is start following these handy tips.

*Just Because it Costs More, It Doesn't Necessarily Mean its Better: You may think that paying for expensive brand names means it’s a better quality, but it’s not always true. You can usually find a cheaper alternative to the expensive things that works just as well.

*It Pays to Compare: Don't let your impulses rule your wallet. Never walk into a store and buy something without evaluating whether or not you may be able to find it for cheaper elsewhere. Although it might take a little longer to shop around, and you may not even be able to find certain items for a noticeably less expensive price, you could potentially save yourself from a lot of buyer's remorse by buying an item for a lesser price than what you originally saw it for.

*Don't Underestimate the Power of the Dollar: Dollar Stores are great places to get basic items, like picture frames, kitchen supplies like dish soap, utensils, and dish towels, as well as pillows, lotions, shampoos, even makeup.

*Know the Reasons for Buying out of Season: By thinking in advance you can be a better buyer. Get that new winter coat when they start putting out the spring lines. Stock up on tank tops when they start putting the Halloween candy on the shelves. Buy your holiday items the day after the holiday, when everything is suddenly marked down 75%. Strategic spending saves you more money than you think, all it takes is a little forethought!

*Friendly Discounts: If you've got close friends who work at a store you frequent, ask them if they would be willing to pick up items for you using their employee discount. While this might not be practical (or polite) for every little purchase you make, if you have a big item, or larger purchase to make, ask them if they would be willing to do this for you. If you're not sure you feel comfortable doing that, ask your friend if they might be aware of any specials being offered through the particular store for friends and family of employees. Many stores have special sales, discounts, offers, or even store hours as a promotional consideration for friends and family members of their employees.

Put these tips into practice, and soon you'll see the change--as in all the money you'll save on your next shopping trip!