We all need stuff, from cars to laptops to clothes. That doesn’t mean you have to walk into a store and plunk down money for brand new items each time. Just as the new car you drive off the lot immediately loses half its value — congratulations on the new used car you just purchased — there are plenty of things you can buy secondhand or refurbished.
Consider rentals for rarely used items. You’re unlikely to purchase 80 chairs and a tent for that backyard wedding. How often would you actually use a punch bowl?
Here are five categories of stuff you should definitely not buy new. The money you save can be a much-needed infusion to your emergency fund or a boost to an investment account.
1. Save a bunch on your ride
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New cars are for people who are either really rich or who shrug at the cost and feel it’s worth it. For most people, the savings realized from buying pre-owned (if that sounds nicer to you than “used”) is so substantial as to overcome any…
