Name:
Sharon from Georgia
Forum Membername:
ed1claudia
Your Favorite Source for Bargains:
Thrift stores and the local auction house
Your Best Bargain of All Times:
My friend gave me her old – but still in great shape – bedroom suite. With updated linens, she didn't even recognize it when she came to visit. I also purchased a transferware plate at the auction house last week for $20, and it is worth at least $150. I have seen similar plates sell for $200-$300.
Your Best Money-Saving Tip:
A coat of paint can make almost any piece of furniture look better.
The Worst Money-Saving Advice You've Received:
Don't buy it unless it's on the list. That's just crazy. If I forget something and I need it, or its on sale and I have an anticipated need for it, why not get it when I'm AT the store? It's a waste of time and money to return to the store later.
The Craziest Thing You Do to Save Money:
We charge EVERYTHING – and I mean everything – and pay off our credit card every month. We earn cash on our purchases, so we MAKE money off of our credit card. When I bought my new car two years ago, I tried to charge it, but the dealership nearly had a coronary!
What You're Doing Now to Save:
- We're working hard to finish paying off our mortgage; and should have it done in under three years, if we stay employed
- I go to local auctions for great prices on well-made furniture. I recently bought a beautiful drum table at auction for $45. You just can't find that quality at that price in any retail store in the country
- I am a bit of a fashion horse and need professional looking, up-to-date clothes; so I stay with high-quality classic designs, primarily bought at thrift stores (sometimes department stores, if it's discounted enough). I will pay full price for a new white t-shirt or top in a classic style, since it won't go out of style quickly; and I'll wear it until it's ready for the rag box. Classic clothing lines enable you to build a wardrobe and just add a few pieces each season rather than going with the trends (which are just hideous at the moment!)
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