Thrift Stores

Thrift stores are similar to garage sales in that they come in various sizes, run by the individual or an organization, and offer a variety of merchandise. For example, the Association of Retarded Citizens (ARC) is one of the small to medium stores that often have great deals. First Step usually falls in the medium category, and Goodwill is normally in the larger category. Shop as you would in any other store. However, if you decide you want an electronic appliance, you have the right to plug it in and test it out before buying.

However, like any other store, you have to know what you are buying. Some stores will raise the prices higher than what you can but the item new. You can find bargains, but you have to shop smart.

Note: Some thrift stores will be glad to take your number and call you when they get in certain items. Don’t hesitate to ask. ARC has done this for me and I have found some hard to find items that were just what I wanted. When our youngest son got his first apartment, while in college, we outfitted his whole house from Goodwill for under $150. We found a good kitchen table and three chairs for $10. The table and one of the chairs were covered with specks of paint and looked ugly. I purchased a paint remover that doesn’t hurt the wood and it took me approximately one hour to have a table and chairs that were beautiful

Again, when you go shopping, make sure you have a list of items you need. Just browsing and buying doesn’t save money and you end up with items you don’t need.