- 1). Negotiate the price for big-ticket items like appliances and electronics. Tell the sales associate that you are interested in purchasing the item but not at its current price. She may decline to negotiate, but there is a chance that she will offer you a discounted price. To be effective, you need to be prepared to walk away from the purchase; have a set price that you will not go above.
- 2). Buy goods that will last. Being thrifty doesn't necessarily mean being cheap. An inexpensive car that breaks down constantly, for instance, is a bad investment because of the many repairs you will need to fund. A more costly vehicle that runs smoothly for years could ultimately save you money. Research your purchases and consult consumer reviews to learn about the quality of these products. Don't pay more for branding, but be willing to pay more for increased quality.
- 3). Discount your expenses with coupons. J'aime Kirlew, of television's "Extreme Couponing," claims that she saves approximately $1,000 per month by clipping coupons. Scan your local newspaper and fliers for coupons, and look for sales at the area stores. Combining sales with coupons can provide even deeper discounts.
- 4). Stretch your funds by earning interest on the money you already have. Michael Ellenbogen, author of "The Insider's Guide to Saving Money," recommends keeping your money in a high-interest savings account and transferring money to your checking account as needed to pay your bills.