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Buying a Refrigerator
The Dollar Stretcher
by Gary Foreman
gary@stretcher.com

Hi,
I am in the market to purchase a new 25 cu. ft. side-by-side
refrig./freezer. Is one time of the year better for sales? Should I try Ebay? Or what is cheapest method?
Connie

Connie asks a very good question. A refrigerator is not only one of the most expensive appliances you'll buy for your home, but it also consumes 20% of electricity you use every month. So a good decision now could save a few dollars every month for years.

The experts I found say that you'll do best buying a major appliance during the winter months. No reason was given, but it might be that people are too busy paying off holiday debt to buy major appliances unless they have to.

Of course, with something like a refrigerator the best time to buy is when your old one is still working. That way you won't be facing the cost of spoiled food and you'll have time to price shop.

Connie should consider a three step approach. First, visit some local stores to see what's available. Get a general idea of pricing and what models and options she'd like to consider. Second, do a little research to narrow the search and compare prices. Only then is she ready to actually go
buy her refrigerator.

During her research, Connie will want to check repair records. It's hard to beat the information that Consumer Reports puts out. And, you'll find it free at most public libraries.

Connie is wise to think of using the web to help her find a bargain. But Ebay might not be the place to look. A quick search under refrigerator only showed small under counter units and one commercial model. Even if Connie did find one at a price she liked shipping could be a major expense.

But she will want to check out the websites for major retailers. Although she probably won't buy it online, she can get a very good idea of pricing.  For instance BestBuy.com lists all of its side-by-side refrigerators on one page with basic size and price info.

This is also the time for Connie to compare slightly smaller or larger units and to decide what features she really wants. For instance, a new side-by-side model will cost more to operate than a top freezer. Ice makers and water/ice dispensers are convenient but cost more.

Once she's done her homework it's time to go visit some retailers. Before visiting the major national retailers it's probably wise to check out some alternatives. For instance a scratch and dent outlet might turn up a good deal.

Connie might also want to check with rental centers. Often they have slightly damaged units that they're willing to sell cheaply. Remember that these units are sold as is. So make sure that you know exactly what's wrong and aren't missing anything important or expensive.

She should also check out smaller local outlets. Many will meet the big boy's prices and offer more personal service.

Don't forget that the initial cost of the fridge is only part of what you'll spend. Consider the operating costs. The yellow EnergyGuide labels are a great tool. The sticker will estimate how much each refrigerator will add to your electric bill per year. Remember that you'll probably keep a
refrigerator 10 years or more. So a $25 difference between models is worth $250 over the appliance's lifetime.

Once Connie has decided on a model it's time to find the lowest price.  Don't forget that home improvement centers like Lowe's also sell appliances. And Connie doesn't have to limit her price shopping to physical stores. She can also use a published online price. A printout of the web page can prove handy.

Now to negotiate with her favorite retailer. Most stores will match lower prices, including those found on the web. Simply ask the salesperson if they do. Even if their price is the lowest it doesn't hurt to ask if the listed price is  their best price.

And after Connie has negotiated the price ask for free delivery. If you haven't hit their rock bottom price yet they'll probably throw it in to complete the deal. Especially if you show a willingness to delay on the purchase.

Connie will also be asked to buy an extended warrantee. But unless she's managed to choose a lemon, she really doesn't need the extra coverage. According to RepairClinic.com the average cost of an appliance service call is $120. Most extended warrantees cost quite a bit more.
___________________

Gary Foreman is a former purchasing manager who currently edits The Dollar Stretcher website www.stretcher.com/save.htm  and ezine
 

 

The Secret Formula For Getting Completely Out Of Debt!

Article by Kris Bickell

If you've ever had trouble paying your bills, then you know just how tough it is to live with debt - having no money for the fun things in life, paying for groceries with credit cards, and worrying about how you'll ever get ahead financially.

Does this sound familiar?

It does to me.  Not too long idea I struggled like crazy just to buy food every month.  At times, I thought there was no way out. Fortunately, there was.  And there can be for you, too.

Trust me, it "ain't easy," but you can do it.  Here's how:

The single most important thing you can do to get yourself out of debt is not to win the lottery, is not to inherit money, is not to get more low interest balance transfers, and is not wait for that lucky break in life.

Then, what is it?

The single most important thing you can do to get out of debt is to make a commitment to yourself.  You need to select a date you want to get out of debt - be realistic - and then DO WHATEVER IT TAKES TO MAKE IT HAPPEN!

Don't make excuses.  Don't complain.  Don't worry.  Don't save money for a month or two and then give up.  Make a deal with yourself to keep working to get out of debt until you do.  And your life will improve like you never imagined - as long as you also make the commitment never to get into debt again!

Once you have made commitment, you need a plan.  First, you need to think of every little way you can save money, and do it.  Then look for more ways to save money.  And finally, look again.

Turn off your cable TV (yes, you will survive.)  Stop eating out for dinner every Friday night.  Buy store brands.  Use coupons.  Shop around for the best price on auto insurance, home insurance, health insurance, long distance telephone - all of your monthly bills.

You'll be amazed at how much money you can save, when you really take a close look at all of your expenses, and get rid of as many as you can, then lower the ones you must keep.

Then, you need to look for ways to make extra money.

Bring all you old items to consignment or a pawn shop.  Get a part-time job.  Start your own online business.  Sell something at your local flea market.  Cut lawns.  Make money doing your hobby.  Think hard, and you will find some way to make extra money.

Remember, you didn't get into debt overnight, so you won't get out of debt overnight.  But unless you make some changes, you won't get out of debt at all!

Someone once said:

"The definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over and expecting different results."

If you want to get out of debt - if you really want to get out of debt - sit down somewhere quiet, make a commitment to yourself to do whatever it takes to get out of debt, write down a plan for saving money, think of ways to make extra money, and get ready.

Your life will never be the same!

 

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