Household income in America rose in 2018 to pre-recession highs, and yet their purchasing power continued to decline. Its no secret that skyrocketing home prices, and the pending repayment of your car finance coupled with rising costs of living are weighing heavily on the pockets of shoppers. When we speak of buying used and second hand, the conversation is still somewhat shrouded in uncertainty. Most families opt for second-hand cars, but what about implementing this habit into other parts of your life? Buying pre-loved items can have a magnitude of benefits for your bank account, your family and, believe it or not, the environment.
Join The Sustainability Movement
Much has been said about the sustainability of our environment, and what you can do to help. Conversations have typically centered around reducing gas emissions and food waste. However, buying second hand is also a great way to contribute to protecting the environment. The fashion industry is the world’s second most polluting industry today, while the scrap metal industry contributes to greenhouse gas emissions. By simply supporting thrift stores for your children’s clothing or even your own, you’ll find fashionable pieces to add to your wardrobe and also be contributing to reducing the amount tossed away. The same ideology can be applied by those looking to make an auto purchase or outfit their home with furniture.
Be Money Savvy
One of the best points supporting second-hand purchases is the money you can save. Pre-owned clothing or vehicles are often heavily discounted, which is extremely budget-friendly. If you are looking to pay off that mortgage or increase your savings, then consider buying second hand. Chances are you can obtain the furniture for your entire living room for a fraction of what it would cost in the store, and even avoid charging it to credit, thanks to the savings.
Extend Product Life
Finally, most products that are gotten rid of are not actually at the end of their useful life. Some people choose to redecorate or, in some cases, products just need a bit of DIY. By opting for pre-owned, you can extend an item’s useful life and also add your own spin on it. An oak table can be revarnished or repainted to match your personality or vision for your own home. Best of all, it will only cost you a few dollars and about an hour of your time. So why not give second-hand items a new home or maybe even a new purpose?
Buying secondhand not only benefits you and your family, but it also helps others. Making purchases whether big or small is an inevitable part of life. While you may not be able to avoid shopping, you can certainly shop smart. The perfect way to start? Consider the merits of pre-owned items.
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