Save Money Shopping Smart During Summer
Most of us know that the best time to buy holiday decorations is after December 25th when all the after Christmas sales begin. But, there are some great deals to be had during the summer as well, and these deals aren’t limited to winter sweaters and snow boots! Here is a list of some super smart buys you can make during the summer months, whether you’re buying for yourself or stocking up for birthdays and holidays that occur later in the year.
Computers and electronics. According to Digital Trends, timing is everything when it comes to getting the most bang for your buck when purchasing a new laptop, cell phone, iPod, and other electronics. If you want to snag a great deal on an HDTV, for example, the end of summer is the best time to shop, since new models are coming out at that time and the previous year model prices are drastically reduced to make room for the new inventory. (If you really want the latest model, it’s best to wait for those after Christmas sales.)
June is prime time for “back to school” computers to be released, meaning last year’s models will be going on sale. While others are getting the newest models for their college-bound kids, you can pick up an older model at a great savings. Aside from Black Friday, August is the best time all year to score a great deal on a new (or at least new to you) computer.
Home audio equipment. The same rule applies here as for computers and electronics, and because the rate at which audio equipment technology is developed is considerably slower, older audio equipment doesn’t show its age as much as a computer or cell phone does. And again, if you just have to have the latest and greatest, wait for the holiday sales.
Digital cameras. Since the average shelf life of a digital camera is about six months these days, summer time is a good time to buy the model that was released last Christmas. Historically, this industry has seen top quality consumer digital cameras discounted as much as 40% within a year of release. Since older models usually still offer most of the latest technologies, you should be able to score the camera with all the features you want by doing your research and watching for the sales.
Gym memberships and home gym equipment. If January is the busiest month for home gym equipment sales and gym memberships, June is the best month to find bargains in these categories. As more people head outdoors, the price of gym memberships and home equipment tends to plummet. The weather is sunny, and nobody wants to exercise inside, especially not in a smelly gym. Retail sales of exercise equipment stall, and the pressure to move this inventory mounts, so if you’re thinking of upgrading your home gym, summer is the time to get the most for your money.
Furniture and home goods. Since most furniture stores restock at the end of summer, July and August can mean big savings in this category. Patio furniture prices also begin a downward trend in late August, so it’s the perfect time to spruce up your outdoor space for next year. Don’t forget your home office when you’re shopping for deals on furniture and home decor. Linens, candles, dishware, wall art, and other home goods also go on sale in late summer, which can be a great time to stock up on wedding gifts for anyone planning to tie the knot at a fall or winter wedding.
Lawn and garden equipment. It makes sense that the end of the season is a great time to buy gardening supplies and lawn equipment like edgers, weed trimmers, rakes, lawn mowers and snow blowers. If your lawn mower is on its last legs but makes it through July and August, September could mean big savings as retailers look to move these larger items out to make room for the fall holiday items that seem to show up earlier every year.
Take advantage of one or more of these super summer savings and pat yourself on the back for all that extra cash you’ll have for school supplies and Christmas gifts in the months to come.