Monday, October 24, 2011

How To Save Money



Howcast: How To Save Money
People who manage to sock away money -- even on a tight budget -- all live by this motto: Make it over, use it up, make do, or do without. Now you can learn from their secrets!

To complete this How-To you will need:
Motto
Due diligence
Quality merchandise
Price monitoring
Self-sufficiency
Priorities
Promotion codes (optional)
Coupons (optional)
Free shipping (optional)
Store policies (optional)

Step 1: Do your homework

Do your homework before buying anything, especially big-ticket items. With the internet, comparison shopping is easier than ever.

Tip: Once you've made a buying decision, search online for "promotion codes," "coupons," and "free shipping."

Step 2: Invest in quality
Buy quality merchandise. It's cheaper in the long run because it won't need to be fixed as often or replaced as soon.

Step 3: Check every receipt
Check every store receipt and restaurant bill to make sure you've been charged correctly. If you put a meal on a credit or debit card, keep the restaurant receipt to compare with your credit card or bank statement; some restaurants engage in so-called "tip-jacking," -- adding in a tip or increasing the one you gave them.

Tip: Know the store policy on price accuracy; some give away an item if it's scanned higher than the advertised cost.

Step 4: Ask yourself this question
When buying a non-necessity, like clothing, ask yourself if you really, really love it. If not, put it back. Even if you do love it, wait a few days before buying it; by then, the urge may have completely passed.

Step 5: Become a do-it-yourselfer
Become a devotee of do-it-yourself. Learn how to make simple home repairs, do basic sewing, and cook meals from scratch.

Step 6: Establish priorities
Set priorities, such as home ownership or early retirement. Saving up is easier if you have savings goals.

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