With the current recession, it’s a great time to consider other ways of getting the things we need than running to the store and buying them new. Plus buying used/trading/borrowing reduces our use of natural resources and manufacturing pollution – so its good for your wallet and our environment! And we’re guessing with all the spending that occurred before the bubble burst, there’s a lot of buried treasure out there in closets, garages, and cabinets – just waiting to get a second chance. Here’s some ideas to get started:
- Local libraries have books, music, and movies for free!
- Attend or organize a clothing swap with your friends, family, and neighbors to give away old and get “new” in return.
- Its getting that time of year – plan or participate in a community garage sale and start shopping at the local ones.
- Use online services likes Craigslist and Ebay to find quality used goods – including furniture that is often higher quality than new. Can also use to get an idea of what things are worth.
- Check out local re-use stores like Goodwill, Value Village, Second Use, and RE Store.
What do you have that you could ‘trade in’ for something ‘new’ to you?
Share your ideas, we’d love to hear them and share with others!
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