I have often been called the “Bargain Queen.”  I don’t mind this term, in fact it is almost a little like a badge of honor. I think it is in my blood to be a smart shopper, always looking for a deal. It definitely came to surface during my years as a single mom – stretching those pennies as far as they could go and then some. Here are some great money saving tips for stretching the budget even though you live in a one-income home.

1.  Shop Second Hand Stores

When buying furniture for your house or apartment try saving money by shopping at thrift stores first. You can also ask about unstained, unpainted, or unsanded furniture at a lower price. You will save money by putting your own time and elbow grease into a piece of furniture.

2.  Shop Liquidation Sales

You can always find the best bang for your buck at a liquidation sale. Also, waiting until the last few days of the sale will save you even more money. Retailers will sell liquidation items at remarkable prices on the last few days of sales just to see it go out the door.

3.  Learn the sale cycles at your favorite stores

Whether it be every Wednesday or every 6 weeks, get to know when big donation days are, and when new items hit sales floors at your favorite second hand stores.

4.  Beware of eye level impulses

Retailers often put overpriced items at eye level. Another big impulse buy is at the checkout counter when you are waiting in line. Bring a book if you have to, just to serve as a distraction until it’s your turn.

5.  Search the internet for Money Saving Tips

Visit Amazon for non-perishables. Its “Subscribe and Save Program” will save you up to 15 percent and gives you free shipping. It’s a great way to save money on items like paper towels and staples for the home.

6.  Keep a gift closet

I am always trying to scramble around looking for that last minute birthday gift. Whenever you come across reduced priced items that could be used as gifts, grab them. It will save you from over spending at the last minute.

7.  Turn unwanted items into cash

Try consigning furniture or larger art pieces at your local second hand store. If you live in Northern California, check out The Arc Store. Second hand stores like Play It Again Sports will give you cash up front for a lot of your sporting items. You can often find local consignment boutiques in your area like Clothing Revival that buy gently used name-brand clothing too.

8.  Haggling money saving tips

• Do your research and you may be able to say, “I’ve seen it here for less.”
• Subtly point out flaws and say, “I see a slight scratch here, can I get a discount?”
• A little flattery never hurts. Tell the cashier/clerk, “I’d rather spend my money here because I’ve been a loyal customer for years, your store is convenient and you are so polite.”

Beware: Charity Scams are popping up everywhere these days. Before you donate look up your charity’s financial report. If you donate your gently used goods to any one of the Arc Stores in Chico, Paradise or Oroville, all of the proceeds stay right in your own community.

So, head of household, I hope you’ve learned a few money saving tips that will be useful to you, but before I send you on a money saving adventure here are a couple smart questions you should always ask the stores where you shop:

• “Do you have a mailing list or newsletter that announces sales early?”
• “Where are coupons available for your store?”

Before you leave home to shop and save, download and print the coupon below to receive $5 off a $15 purchase at The Arc Store. The coupons are valid at any of our Arc store locations.