10 Ways to Save Money

by Victoria Brown

1. Ask yourself if you need it or want it. This could save time and money, not to mention the hassle and embarrassment of returning it.

2. Always review the return policy before making any purchases. Do not make more than 5 returns in a year.

3. Purchase quality made products that have a guarantee and shop at retailers that stand behind their products they sell. You will end up spending more for cheaply made items replaced several times versus the quality made item that will last.

4. Review the store ads delivered weekly in the mailbox and those found in the Saturday Edition local paper.

5. Shop wisely, use coupons when you can, and look for sales.

6. Big warehouses and bulk retailers are not always the best deal. If you compare the price per item or per ounce, chances are you can save more money elsewhere, especially if you buy it on sale and use coupons.

7. Look for marked down items, shop the clearance rack (Target has great finds), ask the butcher at you grocery store when expiring meats are marked down. My Savemart will frequently mark down meats on Saturday nights. I shop early Sunday morning for the best deals with markdowns totalling up to $4 off the original price!

8. Keep a notebook of items most often purchased along with their cost. Then compare those prices when shopping elsewhere.

9. Establish a rapport with the store employees.

10. Never go shopping when you are hungry, in a hurry, or do not have a plan or list of items you intend to purchase.