Please upgrade your web browser

These pages are built with modern web browsers in mind, and are not optimized for Internet Explorer 8 or below. Please try using another web browser, such as Internet Explorer 9, Internet Explorer 10, Internet Explorer 11, Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, or Apple Safari.

6 Ways to Save Money on Large Purchases

General

At some point in time, you're going to need to make a large purchase. Whether you're looking for a car, ways to fund your college degree, or buying your first home, finding a way not to break the bank is probably on your mind. After all, not everyone wants to spend their money without getting the best deal possible.

Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to make sure your money stretches the extra mile. Here are a few strategies you can use to ensure you're getting the best deal possible.

1. Use Your Credit Score

If you have good credit, you may be able to get a low-interest loan that can help you finance your purchase. If you're pursuing an education, take advantage of student loans. With a high score, you'll get a fantastic interest rate.

It's important to consider financing options when making a large purchase like an auto loan. If you have a great credit score, many retailers offer financing plans with low-interest rates. This can help you save money on the total purchase cost, which can give you time to pay off your purchase.

A good credit score can take you far in getting the best deal possible.

2. Always Compare Prices

Another way to save money on big purchases is to shop around for the best deals. Compare prices between different retailers. This can be done online or in person. It's important to consider shipping costs when doing this so you can get an accurate comparison.

You can also save money by buying in bulk. This is often cheaper per unit than buying individual items. This strategy can be especially helpful if you plan on using the item frequently or if you need to buy multiple units of the same thing.

3. Shop Re-Used Items

One way is to look for refurbished or reused items. Refurbished items are ones that have been used before but have been repaired or reconditioned to be like new. Reused items are ones that have been used before but are still in good condition.

Both refurbished and reused items can be found at a fraction of the cost of new items. When shopping for large purchases, it is important to compare prices and find the best deal possible. Saving money on large purchases can help stretch your budget and allow you to get more for your money.

4. Trade Instead of Buy

Another great way to save money is to barter for goods and services. If you have a skill or service that someone else needs, you can trade your services for their goods.

Another advantage of trading is that it can help you to get more for your money. When you trade, you're essentially exchanging one item for another. This means that you can end up with a better quality item than you would if you simply bought the item outright.

5. Get a Discount

Another way to save money is to look for sales and discounts. This can be done by signing up for retailer newsletters, following them on social media, or checking their website regularly. You may also be able to find coupons and promo codes that can be applied to your purchase. If you know someone who works at the store where you're making your purchase, ask for an employee discount. You might be surprised at how much money you can save.

If you're planning on making a big purchase soon, it's worth considering whether you can wait for a better deal. This could mean waiting for a holiday sale or waiting until the item goes on clearance.

6. Use Cash

Finally, one of the best ways to save money on big purchases is to use cash instead of credit. By paying with cash, you'll avoid interest charges and fees, and you'll be more likely to stick to your budget.

Making a large purchase doesn't have to break the bank. By using these strategies, you can make sure you're getting the best deal possible. Remember, looking at a high-dollar item doesn't always mean you have to break the bank. With creative and careful planning, you can make your money stretch far.

If you have comments or feedback about any article, please email your thoughts to info@acp-advisornet.org.

About the Author

Write an Article

We welcome articles on any subject that might help our veterans. Articles are especially useful in place of frequently similar responses, and can be linked in your replies.

Add an article