Eight ways to save by buying secondhand

While many budget items from big-box stores can feel cheaply made or not built to last, secondhand shopping is a great way to get quality items on a tight budget. Here are eight ways you can save by buying secondhand.

Visit the thrift store

Just because you’re on a budget, that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice quality. Your local thrift store is a great place to find secondhand goods at budget prices. Most thrift stores have cookware, books, clothing, toys, and even furniture, and it’s likely you won’t end up spending more than a few dollars per item.

Find garage sales in your neighborhood

Garage sales are another great resource for low-cost items. Check your local newspaper for garage sale listings or simply walk around on a weekend morning, keeping an eye out for signs. In the city, you might find sidewalk or stoop sales. Because many people have an everything-must-go attitude at garage sales, there’s a good chance you can barter for even better deals.

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Buy refurbished electronics

If you’re in need of a new laptop or smartphone, the prices can be daunting. However, purchasing refurbished electronics is a great way to save money. Many retailers offer refurbished devices including laptops, gaming consoles, smartphones, tablets, and even earbuds that have been previously owned and restored to mint condition.

“While many budget items from big-box stores can feel cheaply made or not built to last, secondhand shopping is a great way to get quality items on a tight budget.”

Shop for clothing at consignments stores

A consignment store buys items from people directly and then resells them, paying the person who sold the item a fraction of the sale price. Consignment stores differ from thrift stores in that they buy items rather than accept donations, which means their offerings are typically more curated. Consignment stores are great places to find name brand items and trendier pieces. Plus, if you bring some of your own clothes to sell, you may leave with more money in your pocket than you came in with.

Browse online marketplaces and auctions

If you’re looking for a niche item, browse an online marketplace or auction. Many auction websites let you type in specific search queries, so you can find the exact make, model, color, and/or brand of an item you’re looking for. Before purchasing something new, try to find it secondhand online—you never know what’s out there.

Refurbish secondhand furniture

Looking for the perfect chair or dining room table but struggling with the price? Buy secondhand furniture then refurbish your findings. Whether you find a piece at a thrift store, estate sale, or antique shop, you can figure out plenty of ways to make a secondhand piece feel like new—like reupholstering fabric or refinishing wood. Refurbishing secondhand furniture is also a great way to customize a truly unique piece for your home.

Consider a pre-owned vehicle

Buying a new car is a considerable expense, but finding a pre-owned vehicle can make a significant difference when it comes to price. What’s old to someone else is still new to you, and you can find a gently used car that’s still in great condition.

See if your local library has books sales

Is buying books your kryptonite? Many local libraries with limited shelf space host occasional book sales to clear room for new titles. Buying a used book from the library not only supports a good cause but also makes sense financially. While you might not find the latest release at your library’s book sale, you’re sure to find a few well-loved classics!

Shopping doesn’t have to break the bank, especially when you do it secondhand. For more tips on making the most of your shopping trip, check out our advice on buying a new versus used car, setting a grocery budget, and snagging back-to-school discounts.