I'm hoping to gather tips and information on saving money and getting the best for your money. If the cost of gas and consequently, groceries etc., is taking a bigger bite out of your budget, let's share ways of increasing the amount of our paycheck that we get to keep. Any tips you have on household spending are welcome - or even time-saving tips. As they say, time is money!
I found a great site for inexpensive meal ideas. Also print coupons directly from the site.
Weeknight dinner ideas
Here's the link:
http://www.pillsbury.com/search/searchresults.aspx?terms=Budget+Meals&DCSext.SearchSource=SearchPagePopularSearch
The recipes are very kid friendly!
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
About Ebay
After months of researching Ebay as a buyer, here are a few tips for you. The seller's feedback ratings are very important. Read through them before placing a bid - I really only like to buy from sellers who have 100%. I paid for an item from one seller that I never received. However, because I paid through Paypal - the issue was resolved and my money was returned. So, tip number 2 would be to only pay through Paypal. It's secure - and my sellers only accept Paypal for payment anyway. Also, check to see what kind of environment the items come from. If you're buying clothes and hate the smell of smoke - or are allergic to animals, you would only need to order from a smoke-free or pet-free home. The other major tip I would suggest is to watch the item first....do not bid. The earlier buyers start bidding, the higher the price seems to go. You can have messages sent to your e-mail account when the item you watching is ending soon. I like to go online during the last few minutes, and if the price is at a good point - bid then. You may not always get the item as there may be higher outstanding bids that aren't showing, but you can avoid "bidding wars" where you end up paying more than you really wanted. Also, be sure to take into account the shipping and handling fees which can add more to the price than you want to pay.
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
Videos
Check out the videos on the web page, they may give some great hints...and don't forget to post your favorite family budget tip!! Speaking of videos, many of the libraries in bigger cities have movies and video games that you can check out. You can get on a waiting list for the newer, more popular ones. Most libraries are accessible online, so you can submit requests for the newest books, movies, games, etc. and have them notify you by e-mail or phone when it's available for checkout. This is a great moneysaver if you've been renting from a movie store. Many libraries also offer children's hours with puppet shows and other fun stuff (no charge) for children not old enough for school - so check it out! Have you got any fun, cheap kids and family fun ideas? Post them here - your tip could make the top 10!
Monday, September 22, 2008
Bundling
Check out the prices for bundling services such as internet, cable, and telephone. You can usually get a great deal from such companies as Mediacom and others that offer an all-service package. Add the costs up of what you're paying, and call for a quote. Usually installation is free and there are no start-up costs. You could save $$$$ over a year or so.
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