KATHY’S HOME & GARDEN TIPS – SAVE MONEY IN THE NEW YEAR
KATHY’S HOME & GARDEN TIPS – SAVE MONEY IN THE NEW YEAR
Always plan your meals for the week then make your shopping list. In time you will learn the layout of your favorite store and can make your list accordingly. This will avoid impulse buying by keeping your schedule following the list throughout the store.
If you have young children check out yard sales and thrift stores. Children go through clothes so quickly that you can often find barely worn clothing. They also can go through toys fast too often out growing toys after a few short months. My son and daughter-in-law have young children and will often borrow a fancy dress or other outfit from friends rather than have the expense of purchasing an outfit to only be worn once.
Internet bargain hunting is becoming very popular. It is invaluable when making a large purchase. You can check out prices at several stores from the comfort of your home. Print coupons and find extra discounts too!
When making those large purchases it’s a good idea to buy out of season or end of season. Buy Christmas decorations after Christmas. Buy Snow blowers in September. Buy trees and shrubs to plant in late fall. It’s the best time to plant and garden centers discount plants and trees in order to clear inventory before winter.
Plant a garden. Even a small garden can produce enough fresh vegetables to save quite a bit of money. You can also have organic vegetables without the hefty price tag.
Do It Yourself (DIY). Again the internet is very helpful here. You can find step by step instructions to do just about any job in and out of the house. With a little care and practice you will wonder why you didn’t try this sooner. Thisoldhouse.com is a great place to find detailed directions and videos for everything from replacing a toilet ring to planting a tree.
We get by with a little help from our friends. Big job to do? Invite your handy friends over. Feed them and provide beer and wine…AFTER the work is done!
KATHLEEN WEAVER-ZECH & DEAN’S TEAM CHICAGO
