AVOIDING THE PITFALLS OF NEW YEAR’S SHOPPING

By Alan Styles

The post-holiday sales are in full swing, and I’ll admit I do love a great bargain! But bargain hunting is more than looking for the lowest price; it’s about getting the best deal. As consumers we make choices all the time about how to spend our money. Not only do we want good bargains, we want to spend our money in ways that support our own values. Buying fewer items that are made of better materials, use less energy and last longer, will save you money in the long run. The added value—it reduces the number of unnecessary and shoddy products that end up in our landfills.

It’s Not a Great Deal if You Don’t Need It.

Rock bottom prices can tempt even the savviest shopper to make purchases he/she doesn’t need. There’s a rule of thumb I try to keep in mind when I’m drawn to a display of enticing gadgets (usually strategically placed right by the register): it’s not a bargain if you don’t need it! Don’t worry, there’s no need to avoid the clearance rack entirely. There are simple ways to avoid impulse buys. Shopping lists are a very effective way to resist unnecessary stuff. If an item is not on the list, take a moment to consider whether or not it is essential. If you still feel the urge, put the item aside until you’ve finished the rest of your shopping. Even better: go home and think about it. A little time and space can help clear your head.

A Little Research Never Hurts.

The Internet has revolutionized the way America shops. If you need something, you can bet someone out there has written a review, an article, or a blog about getting the best bang for your buck. Consumer Reports has even started a new website to make your online shopping less of a guessing game: www.greenerchoices.org. The site is devoted to helping consumers find the most environmentally and wallet-friendly products.

Rent or Borrow

There are so many things we buy but only need once or twice a year. Often, these are big ticket items, so why put such a large dent in your bank account? Rent or borrow instead. Remember, friends and family can be great resources. If you only use a power drill once in a blue moon, borrowing from Uncle Bob can save you a bundle. If you think something might sit in the garage most of the year, renting is better option.

A-Z Rental Center
110 Abbott St., Salinas
(831) 424-4770
A2Zpartyrental.com
A-Z has everything you need to plan a special event: tables, chairs, linens, catering equipment and barbecues.

Gadsby’s Music Co.
219 Monterey St, Salinas
(831) 424-6421
Not sure that the Tuba is right for your son or daughter? Gadsby’s rents instruments, as well as, amps and P.A.s.

Rent-A-Center
828 E Alisal St, Salinas
(831) 753-9000
rentacenter.com
Rent-A-Center offers short and long-term rental options for video cameras, computers, other electronics, furniture and appliances. 

Get the Most Out of What You Do Buy.

An item with the lowest sticker price can actually cost you much more in the long run. Smart shopping means considering the bigger picture, the long-term costs. Most of the time, a slightly higher initial investment will pay big dividends. Look for better quality items you know will last. That way you don’t end up buying the same things over and over again. 

Remember, we pay for the energy to power appliances and other electrical products years after the initial purchase. Make sure you factor these costs into your decision. More often than not, the cost savings from an energy efficient dishwasher or clothes dryer, for example, will pay back the price difference in a relatively short period of time. Likely it’ll pay for itself in energy savings before the time comes for a replacement.

The Real Deal!