It’s should come as no surprise that spending on electronic goods is an expensive endeavor.
Electronics entertain us, teach us and overall, makes our lives more efficient—and arguably better. Yet, the topic of better may be a conversation for a different time and place.
But referring back to the high prices of electronics, we, as consumers, simply don’t spend wisely. Our cultural impulse of society’ s love affair with electronic products or services has forced us into spending unnecessary amounts of cash. We feel obligated to stay electronically current, and as a result, have financially paid for the consequences. So, if you were hoping to find a way to solve your inability to stay frugal, you’ve come to the right place. Here are simple solutions for cutting your costs in the realm of electronic purchases:
Invest in Bundling Services
One of the best places to start cutting your electronic expenses is with your energy bill, as you may be paying double to triple the amount of what you could be saving.
If you have a difficult time keeping your monthly energy costs down, you may want to consider bundling your services together. Bundling services is a marketing tactic service- providers will offer customers to promote saving opportunities. For example, some service-providers will price two or three items together for one price; in specific terms, high-speed Internet, high-quality home phone access and premium satellite or cable TV service may be packaged under one price. This may offer customers with a cost-friendly alternative that’s cheaper than paying for each service separately.
Negotiate an Open-Box Special Deal
Almost instinctually, we forgo electronic items that have been opened and/or slightly used with too much scrutiny. The next time you go shopping for electronic purchases, talk with a store representative and ask he or she about any open-box opportunities. An open-box is exactly what it sounds like: an item that has previously been “opened.” Well, just because it’s opened does disqualify it from being just functional as brand new item.
Invest in Previous-Generation Goods
Trying to stay current with your electronic expenses is a recipe for disaster. Many companies change the model of a specific item several times a year, which makes their “previous” products VERY similar to the most current models. This type of consumer-savvy thinking could end up saving you hundred to thousands (depending on how much you specifically invest in electronic goods). Some retailers will even go as far as much as 50% off of a product that was released within that same year. So, talk with store representative and consider the options available.
Limit your Time Shopping Online
Online retail services, such as Amazon, have made purchasing so easy for consumers that it is almost laughable. However, this type of consumer-behavior can often be destructive to your finances. With the click of a button, you can just about any product promptly sent to you without even so much as moving a muscle. Although it’s highly efficient, it also makes it highly attractive to over use and exploit. Limit your online shopping as best you can—you may need to cancel your subscription all together.
