We can all understand the feeling of being stretched thin between everyday expenses, one-time costs when something goes wrong, and the ever-present need to save for retirement. Sure, money is tight, but we are all in this together. We even want to have enough money to help others in need. This is a kind gesture.
One way to give is through the car auction in Albuquerque, New Mexico. This is how it works. Vehicles are donated to Casa Esperanza by individuals, community groups, and local businesses from all over the Albuquerque and Santa Fe areas. One hundred percent of the profits made from the sale of these vehicles are reinvested back into supporting the mission of Casa Esperanza and partner charity organizations in New Mexico.
After we have given to charity, there are ways to make some small changes that can have a big impact down the line. It’s a great idea to save money on things that cost less than they ever have before since those costs will be passed on to you in the future. It’s all about lowering your lifetime spending requirements while giving yourself a fair shot at achieving financial freedom.
Smart Ways to Save Money and be Financially Savvy
1. Buy Used Items
Used books are cheaper than new ones, and with the internet, it’s increasingly easy to trade in your old books at sites like Amazon.com with their Buy Box or even eBay. Purchasing used also allows you to take advantage of other people’s emotional attachment to their possessions.
Watch out for any sort of warranty, even if the store is reputable, there will be some sort of recourse for a lemon (a used term meaning something that doesn’t work or has major issues) item. You can find things on the street, from books to furniture to appliances. I once found a 27-inch television on the sidewalk in San Francisco that still worked, and someone had probably just moved and didn’t take it with them (and probably didn’t notice it was missing). It may seem simple enough but over time buying new things can cost you more in the long run since they cost more to produce and maintain.
2. Avoid the Retail Store
It’s easier to make those one-time purchases online. While the retail store offers a convenient location, a consistently improving customer service experience, and item availability, it costs a lot more money when all is said and done. With high volume, low-profit margins, and your own time as the ultimate expense, buying at a retail store is simply more expensive than buying online.
There are many ways to save money and be financially savvy in this economy. No matter what your financial situation may be, or how hard it is to find extra cash, there are steps you can take right now that can help you save money in the long run.
3. Say No to Frivolous Purchases
We all see something that we want online and in magazines. You have to ask yourself if you can afford to buy it and if you really need it. So many times we purchase items that we really don’t need at the time. Make sure you ask yourself if this is a real necessity and then go from there.
4. Use Coupons Whenever Possible
If you’re new to this world of saving money on items you would be buying anyway, it can be a little intimidating. Coupons are like free money and free isn’t something you see every day. It’s all about finding the best coupon, but there are a few places to look. There are now many sites dedicated to finding the best coupons, including CouponSherpa.com.
The first place to look for coupons is online. There are many sites that offer a deal on nearly everything out there. You can also find coupons in your newspapers, magazines, and mail. These will be mailed out on a regular basis and usually contain some pretty good deals. The only thing you need to do is find a good place for them when you get them. Many people will stick them in their cars or keep them in a basket near the front door. Finally, if you’re really lucky have a store that offers regular sales and coupons together!
With just a few smart changes, you will begin to see your money grow. Every so often, treat yourself to a good meal or a pair of new shoes. Just make sure you get right back on saving and being careful with money. You will see the benefits as time goes on.