Some Things We Seem To Overpay On! Are You GUILTY?
Sometimes I come across an interesting article, or hear a great website while watching television. Therefore, I thought I would pass along this helpful information. It relates to the topic that most can not get away with at least hearing something about each day…. money. However, this is a great article about how to save money on everything we are paying too much for. According to Kiplinger.com, Turmoil in the industry could mean a terrific bargain for you with items such as cars, so we all need to pay attention to where we are paying to much. The unfortunate thing is someone else’s hardship is potentially your gain, and some different businesses are truly benefiting and so are some consumers.
Here are some everyday things we are just overpaying for now:
1. Afternon snacks-How many of you try and go with the “healthier” option of a energy/protein bar versus something like a candy bar? Most would say yes they do. However, you are paying at least double the amount for a snack that has just as much sugar as that candy bar. Try going for some fresh fruit instead.
2. Bottled water- “The dr says drink more water”…. so we grab botttled water at the nearest convenient store of by the bulk at the grocery store. Unfortunately, that is a lot more expensive than buying for instance a picture with the filter.
3. Caffeine- We are all guilty of this one… Starbucks. There are much more cheaper options out there, and we know it but just don’t do it.
4. Music- The days of purchasing a whole CD are kinda becoming extinct, and a lot more expensive than downloading certain tunes on places like iTunes or Amazon.
5. Movies-The movie theaters seem to be prospering during this tough economy, however there are some even cheaper options out there. With just as much enjoyment using services such as Netflix will allow a person to save a lot of money (ie- babysitters, food, and overall admission costs).
6. Flowers- A lot of us might be out there purchasing flowers, however if you are there are certainly some cheaper options besides the florist. Look at your local grocery store as a place to pick up that nice set of fresh flowers. There is a potential to save a lot of money and you even have an ability to customize it the way you like it. The recipient of the flowers will like it knowing you just spent more time on their arrangement.
7. Fruits and veggies- I am guilty of this one. Convenience, convenience, convenience…. cost more, cost more, cost more. Buying pre cut fruits and vegetables will cost up to 3X as much as cutting it yourself, however it is so much easier to have someone else cut it!
8. Credit card fees-Late fees and over limit fees: a great way to increase your credit card balance really really fast. Check your statements and find out the grace period (if any) that you can pay your bill late. Avoid these charges because this is a great way to increase that credit card balance back up, when you just started getting it down.
9. ATM fees-Bank with a bank that has a lot of locations so you don’t incorporate those extra fees for taking OUR OWN money out of the bank. Once again, a great way to loose money quick for something we all do regularly. These fees could be up to $4.00 at the ATM you withdrew the money at, AND another out of network bank fee assessed by your bank.
10. Fax & mail services- Look for cheaper smarter options to fax and send packages. FedEx might be the most convenient place to send a package and maybe a fax, however there are far cheaper options out there if you just look.
I know, I know this does not really relate to Leadpile Lead Exchange and what we do here, however who isn’t trying to at least try and see on some ways to save some money? I think we all are guilty of spending too much on some of these things.