Most people already own many things. In fact, a lot of our homes are warehouses for our possessions. I have been steadily going through my stuff and getting rid of everything I no longer have any use for.
We are so conditioned to simply buying a new item that we think we need or want, but there are other ways of getting these items without adding to your clutter and saving you money. Here are 9 ways to avoid buying things you don’t need:
Serial Ownership
This is merely a fancy way of saying buy used items and, when you no longer require them, resell them. Not only does this keep still functioning items out of the landfills, but also the cost of ownership is substantially reduced.
Bartering and Swapping
Many things last longer than their owners maintain an interest in them. Instead of storing them, pass them along so other people may enjoy them. Books come to mind in this category, as well as CD’s, DVD’s, computer and board games and most exercise and hobby items. Once you’ve joined a network you will always have a constant supply of new entertainment. You can trade directly, or set up a credit-based system.
Free Things
You could go dumpster diving or troll your neighbourhood alleys for cast offs. A better way is to check out sites such as Freecycle or Kijiji.ca. You can get anything from furniture, children’s toys and even free firewood. You simply have to pick it up. If you don’t see what you want, post a “wanted” ad and see how many people respond. Then when they are no longer needed, put them back into circulation.
Renting
How often will you use it? An expensive power tool that you will use once a year or so could be rented from a home improvement store. When we went on long road trips, we used to rent a more comfortable (air-conditioned) vehicle for a couple of weeks instead of using our totally option-less Hyundai Accent.
Borrowing
The cardinal rule of borrowing is always to return the borrowed item in the same or better condition – no exceptions. This is a good way to have access to something without having to store it.
Sharing Ownership
My brother lives on a cul-de-sac in a Vancouver suburb. Most of the time they don’t get any snow in the winter, so when it does snow the neighbours share a snow shovel! (In Calgary, where I live, all my neighbours aspire to owning their own snow blowers.) Some things that can be shared are lawnmowers, rototillers, kitchen appliances (everyone gets a chance to try rarely used items such as ice cream makers, waffle irons and chocolate fountains), and tools and sports equipment. Start a club with friends, family, co-workers, etc.
Use it Up and Wear it Out
If you take care of your stuff you will likely be able to use your current items for several years before they wear out. You don’t need to buy new sheets and towels every couple of years. Likewise, if you buy good quality clothing, it should last for a long time. In fact buy the best quality you can afford for things that are often used. Learn how to sew on a button, mend a seam and tighten a screw to extend their usefulness.
Live Behind the Cutting Edge
Do you have to be the first to own a new high-tech gadget or see a movie as soon as it comes out? Wait a few months for the price to come down. Wait for the DVD. Last year’s model is effectively the same as the new model in everything from TV’s to shoes. Watch for the old inventory to be cleared out at discounted prices at certain times of the year.
Don’t Buy Sets of Anything
Do you really need the power drill with the 108-piece bit set or 24-piece flatware? Most people use only one or two pots most of the time. You really only need to use two knives – a chef’s knife and a paring knife – not a complete block set. Figure out exactly what tools you need regularly and buy them. You can always add another piece if need be.
Readers, how do you avoid buying things you don’t need?
