Things to buy used an un-used
Ok maybe Im frugal as hell now? I dunno.
Theres a certain point where to buy something used and un-used. Theres the obvious: panties, hair clips, wigs, socks, sheets, retainers, etc
The not so obvious: beds, car seats (safety), old pintos, plasma tvs, laptops, vacuum cleaners, camcorders, shoes, wet suits, and helmets. Part of that list I got from MSN money.
Whats on your list?
I was thinking of buying a pratically newly used couch and a newly used TV. Everything costs money ...Im just a cheapo.
Re: Things to buy used an un-used
I like free "barely" used mattresses! I saw a sign for them outside a seedy motel.. It was really tempting, but we didn't have any rope to tie it to the car.. Darn
I also saw a sign that said they were selling used mattresses CHEAP! Now, why would I buy a used mattress when I can get a barely used one for free?
Plus, don't buy used condoms.. <--- they might not work
Re: Things to buy used an un-used
Quote:
Originally Posted by gypsy_girlchild
don't buy used condoms.. <--- they might not work
ewwwwwww!!!!!!!!!!!! *(~squeals~)*
but what's wrong with a used tv or camcorder? hell, i even have used shoes....
Re: Things to buy used an un-used
Re: mattresses and sofas, make sure to ask your friends in the area if they've ever had trouble with bedbugs or heard of it locally. They tend to be a problem in some areas, not in others. I had all used furniture in Tacoma, WA and was fine, but a friend of mine here in Portland discovered that there was a bedbug epidemic here -- the hard way. Yieee. Glad my partners already have a good set of furniture and I don't have to look for the stuff.
I'm perfectly willing to buy anything used that I can run through the washing machine.
Appliances, it depends -- on what the used/new price differential is, and on how reliable I expect it to be in either case.
Desktop computers are fine to buy used, as long as they're well-taken-care-of. I bought mine used; it's fairly recent, 1ghz processor/80 gb hard drive, ethernet, and I paid $100 for it from a guy on Craigslist -- and it works like a dream! :heartbeat:
Other things you SHOULD buy used: cats! So many of them need new homes, and little kittens have less trouble finding 'em than "pre-owned" cats.
Re: Things to buy used an un-used
Uh, while we're on the obvious and gross line, stay away from used tampons too. And what's with that "borrowing" thing?
I buy used cars and furniture (tv counts), and sometimes clothes. I always look for elderly ladies selling their furniture because it's almost always like-new and CHEAP. I've gotten some super deals over the years. Once furnished my whole livingroom for $400 including sofa, chair, tables, lamps and tv, and everything was in perfect condition. Actually, come to think of it, I can't remember EVER spending more than $500 on a livingroom. LOL
I NEVER buy used shoes and I just can't bring myself to buy used household items. The furniture I can disinfect. The rest, I can get it cheap enough new to make buying used not worth the bother.
I have to have a new mattress. In my mind, if it's used it's got someone else's body print in it, so to speak, and will never be quite comfy for me. Other people always seem to smoosh them down in all the wrong places. I can see how hotel mattresses might not have that problem, but then, I don't think I really want to bring a hotel mattress home. Best to leave those cooties at the hotel :P
I also buy used car parts if appropriate.
Re: Things to buy used an un-used
Well, I buy
Used books, computers, cameras, china, golf clubs, old cigarette lighters.
My son will shop at the salvation army instead of American Eagle...for pants... Where did that come from?
Used furniture definitely. That's what we call an antique...!!!!
But, I buy my cars new unless it is a classic collectible.
Re: Things to buy used an un-used
Quote:
Originally Posted by thechaosfairy
Re: mattresses and sofas, make sure to ask your friends in the area if they've ever had trouble with bedbugs or heard of it locally. They tend to be a problem in some areas, not in others. I had all used furniture in Tacoma, WA and was fine, but a friend of mine here in Portland discovered that there was a bedbug epidemic here -- the hard way. Yieee. Glad my partners already have a good set of furniture and I don't have to look for the stuff.
Couldn't agree more with you there. Personally, I'd never buy (or accept for free) a used mattress. People sweat and shed skin so much in their sleep, I wouldn't be able to sleep knowing that I'm laying on someone else's whatever. The bedbugs thing is a good point too.
I did actually BUY a used couch when I lived in AZ. A neighbor was having a yard sale and it was right out front. It was a sleeper couch too. She had reupholstered the whole thing, and replaced the mattress. After all she did, all she was charging was: $25. Not bad, eh?
I'd never buy used shoes, or undergarments of any kind. I'm also iffy on used silverware (there's tons of it at every yard sale).
I'm alright with electronics, as long as I test them out first and make sure they work. Oh, and I have to inspect the inside for critters. It's habit now.
::shiver::
Re: Things to buy used an un-used
I bought my fridge and washer & dryer used, from a really reputable guy downtown here. He buys them, rehabs them, and sells them with a warranty. So far, 4 years later, all I have ever had to replace was one of the dog ears on the agitator in the washer. cost:2 bucks. I paid for all 3 what i would have paid for the washer new. I'm wary of used electronics generally unless i know the person selling it, or i get a very thorough "test-drive" of it. Used cars are great. Used cd's !!! hell yes, if they arent all scratched to hell. I but lots of clothes at Goodwill, salvation army etc. My wife buys even more, but she tends to get stuff and chop it up and make new things. Used books are always good, if in good condition. I bought a really nice aquarium used from a guy, he was moving and didnt want it anymore. Came complete with everything, I just had to move it all and set it back up.
Re: Things to buy used an un-used
im all for used things....especially cars... there is no point in buying a new car...unless you have money to blow.
get a year or two old car for a huge discount and its still practically new.
im not a fan of used bedding though...there is a reason why its illegal in most places for stores to sell used bedding...all other furniture is cool...just not matresses.
Re: Things to buy used an un-used
i'm also in favor of pre-owned pets. adopt a shelter pet today! :) the older ones are already trained and much less wild.
Re: Things to buy used an un-used
Pintos - never !!! I would not drive one if you gave me one !