Pre-Owned Vs. New: Five Questions To Ask Before Making Your Next Big Purchase
Before making a new purchase, you need to know whether it is better to buy that product new or pre-owned. While there are pros and cons to each, you should understand your own personal situation before making a decision. Here are five questions that you can ask yourself before choosing new vs. used items:
How Often Will You Use It?
The first question that you should ask yourself is how often you will use the product. If you don’t need it that often, it may be a better idea to buy the product used and save some money. Home and garden tools are not used very often, but are usually very sturdy, making them a great used purchase. You should also consider buying something used if you don’t know whether you will need it often in the future. For example, you should buy used golf clubs if you have never golfed before.
What Is the Price Savings?
How much do you save when you buy something used instead of new? If you are buying a car, you almost always save thousands when you buy used instead of new. By waiting until the latest model year is over, you get an even better deal because you don’t have to worry about the car depreciating as quickly. Used cars can be found in great condition and be very reliable if you talk to the right dealers, says the professionals at Overland Park Mazda. Luggage and electronics are other items that can be found in excellent condition for a fraction of the price.
Which Is the Better Value?
You have to ask yourself whether or not buying used and saving money presents a better value. For example, buying a used furnace for your basement may not be the best way to spend your money, because it could need extra maintenance due to its age. It may also need to be replaced before a new one would. Old kitchen appliances may also need more repair or simply quit working, requiring you to pay more money for a replacement.
Is It Safe to Use A Product After it Has Been Used Already?
Some products are unsanitary to use after someone else has already used them. You wouldn’t want to buy used underwear or a bathing suit that someone else has already worn. If you have allergies, purchasing used furniture would also be a poor choice, since previous owners may have had pets on the furniture that will make your health suffer.
Which Is Easier to Find?
Sometimes, you buy a new product because you have a larger selection of new products as opposed to used products. If it is easier to buy something new as opposed to used, or vice versa, you should take the path of least resistance if the price doesn’t bother you.
The new versus used debate will never cease to exist in the minds of consumers. Only you know if you are getting the better deal, so you should consider your budget and your needs before making your next purchase.
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Category: Family Finances, Saving Money
