Money Management

It seems like money is a hot topic no matter where you go. Many people wish they had more of it. Since money doesn’t grow on trees, we often have to face reality and be more reasonable with our spending. Here are some ways to help stretch that money a little bit further.

If you want to try out the new restaurant in town but it is a bit pricey, go during the lunch hours rather than dinner time. Prices are likely to be several dollars less during the day. On a weekday you can also catch some great specials as restaurants are busiest during the weekends.

Going out to the movies can sure add up quickly with the price of a ticket and a few snacks. If you have to pay a babysitter than you can see a $50 disappearing before the night is over. Wait a few months for the movies to come out on video. You can even decide to purchase it previewed from the movie store for a fraction of the price. New movie releases come out on Tuesdays so if you get into this habit then you will always find movies out that you have not yet seen.

Try to only use credit when necessary for items such as a home and your car. If you want to take a vacation or get new furniture don’t be tempted to charge it on a credit card. While the monthly payments will be small enough the amount of money you will pay in interest during the span of time to pay it off will take your breath away if you stop long enough to add it up. Instead, save some money each week to pay for the purchase. Once you have saved enough then go out and get it. You will find the experience to be much more rewarding.

Buy off season items when they go on sale. Just the other day I picked up a couple of winter jackets for my kids at $10 each when they were originally $70. I also got hats and gloves for less than $1 each. I have a huge storage container at home I place these items in. I will have room for them once I take out the summer clothing I bought for them last year on sale.