by Stephanie Moore
Life should be enjoyed, but it is hard to have a good time when most of your hard earned money is spent in playing catch-up
But there are ways you can improve your financial situation and still have some good times. Another bonus is it can help alleviate you stress levels and actually improve your health.
With just a little planning and discipline you can save thousands of dollars by adjusting your everyday expenses.
For your consideration:
Transport
Never purchase an automobile less than two years old. The value of new cars depreciate as soon as you drive them off the lot.
First pay off one car loan before you finance a second vehicle.
Don’t buy impulsively. Shop around and pick out a dependable vehicle with a good resale value.
Only get a vehicle you actually need. Do you really need a $40,000 truck for trips to the hardware store when you can rent a truck for $20 per hour.
Figure out all of your expenses before purchasing a vehicle. Down payment, monthly payments, insurance, gas, oil, tune ups, and the necessary garage visits to keep up the manufacturers warranty.
Rather than take your aging car on a long road trip, consider renting one. It will save ware and tear on your day-to-day vehicle and if trouble should happen, you’ll have a backup car available from the rental company.
Shop around for the best Insurance rates.
Consider increasing your deductible - you will have a smaller monthly payment.
Do you really need full coverage for that older vehicle?
Ask if your insurance company offers lower rates if you pay in advance.
Shop around for fuel prices.
Use public transportation when possible.
Combine your trips. Make a list and complete everything possible in one outing. Save money and time with multiple errand runs by not scheduling them during high traffic times.
Walk, or bike to whenever possible.
Ride share with other workers and your friends.
Keep your car tuned.
Restaurants
Limit how often you go out to expensive restaurants.
Use coupons. Eat out earlier in the day instead of the higher priced dinner hours.
Find a locally owned restaurant with specials.
Split a meal.
Order only what you want and are willing to eat on the spot
Don’t go out to eat when you are really hungry. You’ll usually end up spending more money.
Home Savings
Winterize / summerize your home to help prevent heat loss/gain.
During the winter wear a sweater and keep your thermostat as low as you can remain comfortable. During the summer don’t let yourself become misrable, but use your air conditioner as little as possible.
Take short showers.
Use cold water when washing your clothes whenever the materials will allow you to do so.
Close all the doors to rooms not being used. Close the heating/ air conditioner vents in those rooms.
Use your grill in the summer and oven in the winter.
Install water saving devices in your yard and home.
Plant your yard with native plants. Generally, they will require much less water and attention.
Get some exercise and sweep your walks and driveway, instead of using a water hose or an electric blower.
Entertainment
Do you really need all those cable television programs? You will end up paying for channels you’ll never watch. Try out Net Flicks and rent movies instead of rushing out to see the newest release.
Go to the movies during the low priced matinee hours
Go for a walk, hike or a picnic. Learn to enjoy life’s simple pleasures.
Instead of subscribing to a magazine, read it at your local library or on the internet.
Buy used books.
Rent certain items instead of buying them. For example, recreational equipment can be rented for much less than it would cost to buy and insure them, and you will not have to pay for, or worry about storing them.
Clothes
Don’t spend an excessive amount on a trendy items that will quickly go out of style.
Never buy anything at full price.
Shop quality, not quantity. It is better to have a few items that you really like and look good on you, than a closet full of stuff you’ve lost interest in.
Do buy in quantity if you find a great deals on basics, such as socks or undies.
It’s always easy to find good bargains at the end of the season specials.
Save on dry cleaning costs. Buy clothes that are easy to care for.
Don’t shop on a whim or if you are feeling stressed out.
Shopping with credit cards will prove to be a very expensive entertainment. Leave them at home if you just want to go window shopping.
Always compare prices, check out consignment stores, thrift stores, garage sales and look for online coupons and deals. Ebay is always a great place to find deals.
These money saving ideas are not going to cramp your style that much, but they are just little things you can do which will add up to substantial savings throughout the year.
By Guest Author:
Before you apply for a fast payday advance be sure to read our free reports by Stephanie Moore on the ins and outs
of getting, a
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