Who doesn’t love buying something shiny and new, whether it’s a piece of furniture, a new appliance or an item of clothing? There’s certainly nothing wrong with enjoying a Buy Score, but if you’re looking to save some cash, there are some items that just don’t make sense to buy new.
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Many items lose value almost as soon as you buy them, while others steadily depreciate over time. People often dispose of items that are new or in good condition. Either way, buying something used often extends the life of the item and puts money back in your pocket. For the items in this gallery, the used alternative is cheaper but still offers quality.
Jewelry
Jewelry always shines just as much whether it’s new or used (after a bit of polishing). However, when buying a used piece, you can pay up to 20% to 40% less than its original price, according to Longs Jewellers. Most jewelers will refurbish and polish your piece so no one will ever know it isn’t new.
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Toys for children
Kids love new toys, but there’s no reason to buy them brand new. Children outgrow toys as quickly as clothes, and the cost of new toys is rising rapidly. Look at the prices of some popular children’s toys according to Today.com: Big-eyed Owleez dolls cost nearly $40 each; Assorted Star Wars Legos are also nearly $40 a pop; the Paw Patrol Ultimate Rescue Fire Truck costs nearly $50. Buying gently used items from sites like Craigslist and eBay can save you a lot of money.
Musical instruments
Music is a beautiful art and anyone who wants to learn should have the right instrument for their purpose. However, the instruments are not cheap. The better the quality, the higher the price. In the middle range, musical instruments can cost from several hundred to several thousand dollars. Buying used will save you a lot of money. You can even check out thrift stores and websites, like Music Go Round and Guitar Center.
Office furniture
You want to be comfortable in your office, but at what cost? A good desk, chair, filing cabinet, and shelving can cost you hundreds to thousands of dollars. And that doesn’t include things like a computer, printer, decorations, and office supplies. Yet individuals and businesses regularly get rid of office furniture. Buying used can save you money while providing you with quality furniture.
Cars
Cars lose value as soon as you take them out of the lot, up to 20%, according to Business Insider. Over time, your vehicle continues to lose even more value. Buying a used car is a better chance to save money on a new ride. The Kelley Blue Book site lets you assess the value of any used car to see if you’re getting a good deal.
fitness equipment
Getting in shape at home is more of a priority than ever during the COVID-19 pandemic. But fitness equipment can be expensive. A new treadmill can cost up to $4,000, according to Consumer Reports. A new set of adjustable dumbbells can cost upwards of $100. These fitness items and more can cause you to lose your mind before you’re in shape. Instead, check thrift stores and websites to find these often barely used items at a fraction of their cost.
Computers and laptops
Since technology is changing so rapidly, you might think that you always have to buy your new computers and laptops to keep up. However, manufacturers like Apple and Dell sell refurbished computers that are “like new” and can save you several hundred dollars or more.
Bikes
A new bike can cost you between a few hundred and several thousand dollars, depending on the style and brand. Still, with a fresh coat of spray paint and a tune-up, an older bike can be refurbished for a much lower price – in fact, enter an online “Buy Nothing” group and you might just catch some one for free. Especially for children’s bikes, which they grow so quickly that it is worth investing in a used bike to save money. But you can even buy adult bikes online on sites like eBay, Craigslist, and Gumtree. Spend the money you save on a brand new helmet, which you’ll need to be safe.
kitchen appliances
A kitchen is often home to many appliances, from instant pots and food processors to bread makers and coffee makers, all of which can cost more than you want, especially if you buy more than one. Before investing in something new, consider finding a used option, especially if it’s a device that’s new to you and you don’t know how often you’ll be using it.
Recreational vehicles
Recreational vehicles (RVs) have become very popular again now that the pandemic has made flying less safe. If you’re considering getting one, don’t start with the expensive new ones (they can start at $90,000) – look for used deals instead. According to the RVers Online website, when you factor in depreciation, financing, maintenance, and other costs, you can save up to half the price of a regular RV by buying used.
Clothing for special occasions
This costume for your sister’s wedding. The costume for your son’s music recital. The Christmas sweater for the office party. These types of special occasion clothes can be very expensive, never to be worn again. Especially right now, during COVID-19, when many people are restricted in where they can go and who they can see, you might be able to pick up some great deals on second-hand clothes, by online or at thrift stores.
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This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: 11 things you should never buy new
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