In Money Saving Tip: Tell Friends when You're Thinking of Buying Something I suggested you tell friends, family, and people you know/see when you're thinking of buying something. The idea was that they might already have what you're going to buy and may either give it to you or let you buy it at a drastically reduced price -- saving you a ton of money. In the piece, I listed several examples where this idea had paid off for us.
A reader recently left a comment on the post with his own story of how this idea saved him some money:
I agree 100%! The other day a friend was talking about a new barbeque he was going to buy and I had mentioned that I needed to buy a washer and dryer. My friend said he had a set that came with the house that he wanted to get rid of.
Long story short, I helped him pick up his barbeque and he gave me a great deal on the washer and dryer. $50.00 for both of them. They were better than the ones I had in my house. I mean really good shape!
Definitely tell your friends what you are looking to buy!
See? It works!
Anyone else out there have a similar story they would like to share?
Yes! I just scored a "new" metal patio set that just needs a coat of paint all because I told my mom that I wanted to buy one to replace my junky old set. Well, she was talking to her neighbor yesterday and guess what? The neighbor said "Do you know anyone who is looking for a new patio set?" And of course my mom said "Yes!" It really does pay to let people know what you are looking for because you never know when the opportunity will arise to purchase the item for a GREAT deal!
Posted by: Laura | March 15, 2007 at 01:48 PM
I usally ask for something, if I like something that they own. If it's not to much. Then what usally happens is they tell me they love theirs(whaterever it is.) and tell me they will help me shop for one. Either that or they will tell me I don't need that, and life goes on in my world. Either way I'm satisfied.
Posted by: Flynn | March 15, 2007 at 10:14 PM