Offer
a lower price and see what happens. Most stores are eager to clear out damaged
goods.
Buyer beware
Keep in mind that damaged goods are often sold
"as is," meaning no warranty, no returns, and definitely no refunds. Sleuth
out other damaged goods. Damaged goods aren't always labeled or placed in a
designated area. Sometimes you'll find less-than-perfect items on the shelves
with the good stuff. Point out the damage to the salesperson and find out if the
store will offer a discount.
WHERE: Building Supplies Recyclers and Salvage
Yards WHY: Some communities accept, store, and sell used lumber, heet goods, hardwood flooring, windows, doors,
cabinetry, and other materials and supplies.
TIPS:
Check local listings. Turn to the phone directory first and call around to find
salvage yards in your area. If you can't find a listing in the phone book,
waste collection companies may be able to tell you who is recycling building
supplies in your area. Bring wheels. If you'll be moving anything heavy,
bring along a dolly, a wheelbarrow, or a wheeled cart to ease the chore. Bring
bigger wheels. Drive a vehicle that can transport what you buy. If you don't
own a pickup, borrow or rent one for the job.
Think
differently. An architectural element that you discover can be used for something
other than its original purpose. Old doors and windows, for example, make
interesting decorative accents. WHAT: Floor Models WHY: If you don't mind that
several thousand people have opened and closed that dish waher or refrigerator
door over several weeks or months, you may be able to purchase the appliance
from the home center for much less than retail. The same goes for furniture
floor models at department and furniture stores.
TIPS:
Ask if floor model appliances, plumbing fixtures and fittings, cabinetry,
countertops, and furniture are for sale. Find the
clearance center. Many national chains designate one retail location per region
as the destination for all unsold clearance items and floor models from the
stores in the area. Ask a manager at your favorite retailer if a regional
clearance store exists in your area. WHAT: Discontinued Lines WHY:
Manufacturers and retailers want to unload discontinued items to make way for
new seasonal lines.
TIPS: Ask employees if discontinued models are
available. They'll often take you to a back room or special section designated
for discounted merchandise. Keep watching. Discount stores introduce,
promote, reduce the price of, and discontinue new product lines quite quickly,
sometimes within a matter of weeks. Shop your favorite stores frequently and
pay attention to product lines you like. When the line goes on sale or
clearance, buy up the remaining items at a significant discount. Many of your shopping
trips will include forays to find the right tool You need certain tools all the
time--a hammer and a drill, for example. Other tools are rarely used and yet
crucial to particular projects. Stretch your budget with these ideas: BORROW.
After all, what are neighbors for? Why buy a reciprocating saw when you plan to
remove only one stud wall in your lifetime?
