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In the News - May 2009
Learn how to stretch your dollar
MURFREESBORO, Ark. - You may think you've exhausted all the ways of
stretching a dollar, but there may be a few more methods to consider, says
Robbie McKinnon, Pike County extension agent with the University of Arkansas
Division of Agriculture.
She offers these spending tips.
- Find the best buy. Look in several places - a catalog,
newspapers, two or three stores, including a secondhand store, and
garage sales. Spend time looking before you spend your money.
- Use wisely. Make the things you buy last longer by taking
proper care of them. Follow manufacturer's instructions when
available.
- Substitute. When you buy something, ask yourself if a
lower-priced item will do the job just as well. Use store brands and
generics instead of name brands.
- Share it. Stretch resources by sharing with neighbors and
friends. Buy in bulk, carpool and share with friends.
- Find it free. There are some items that are available for free.
Use public parks and playgrounds instead of expensive health clubs
for exercise. Use the library.
- Rent or borrow it. When you need something for a short time,
consider renting it rather than buying it.
- Trade or swap. Trade or swap things you no longer use. Trade
talents and skills with neighbors. Can you trade time babysitting
for help with home repairs?
- Make it. Sometimes it's cheaper to make something than to buy
it, but it means you must use your time and skills.
- Watch "phantom" money. Keep track of the money in your wallet.
Stick to your shopping list and avoid impulse buys.
- Don't buy it. Ask yourself if you really need this item or
there's something you want even more. Learn to say no to yourself,
to your children, to salespeople and to things you feel pressured
into buying.
- Don't go shopping just for fun.
For more information on conserving your hard-earned dollar, contact your
county extension agent. The Cooperative Extension Service is part of the U of A
Division of Agriculture.
May 22, 2009
Media Contact: Elizabeth Fortune
Extension Communications Specialist
U of A Division of Agriculture
Cooperative Extension Service
(501) 671-2120
efortune@uaex.edu
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