How to Be A Tightwad

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By Lynn W
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Be A Tightwad

In today's economy, people are trying to save money. Tightwad may sound like a dirty word, but being a tightwad, may help you to stay afloat during this difficult time.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

Will Power
Newspaper
Computer

Step 1

Accept Freebies! Many times people want to get rid of things but don’t want to take the time to take it somewhere. If you need it, don’t hesitate to take it, if offered. One of our best “freebies” was a king size brass headboard for our bed. It was beautiful and in excellent condition and since we have a king size bed and didn’t have a headboard, we accepted it. You can join a local Freecycle group and they usually have lots of offers. Just be ready to speak up quickly, if you need it.
Step 2

If you can’t find it free, then buy used. There are a lot of consignment shops and thrift shops to choose from. Garage sales are a great source of used things. If you are looking for something specific, check the newspaper classified pages. There are a lot of items for sale there. That is how I got our dining room table over 10 years ago for $75.00 and we are still using it!
Step 3

Reuse items. If you can find another use for something, then don’t throw it out. Search the internet, there are a lot of crafty people out there willing to share what can be done with ordinary items.
Step 4

Buy on sale. If you need something and none of the first three steps apply, then try to wait until the item is on sale. If you can’t wait, then shop around and compare prices. Keep your receipt because some stores will adjust the price if it goes on sale soon after you bought it.
Step 5

Always ask yourself if you really need something before you buy it. A lot of people waste money on impulse buying. Just remember every dollar you spend on an impulse item, is less money you have to spend on an item you may really want.
Step 6

Use it until it breaks, then try to fix it if you can.
Step 7

Make food from scratch, it saves a lot in your food budget.