March 2023 – Why You Need to Start Controlling Debt Today

Set Up A Great Outdoor Space for Less

12/03/2023

As nights and afternoons get warmer, more and more homeowners want to set up a great outdoor space. Before you take out a personal loan to buy a new barbecue, patio set and all the accessories, though, here are some tips for keeping your costs low:

1) Use what you have. Rather than buying all new accessories, take a close look at what you have. If your patio set is serviceable, maybe you can repaint it. Consider replacing just a few items – like a broken chair – rather than buying everything new.

2) Create a great lawn. One of the easiest and least expensive ways to create a great outdoor space is with lots of green, lush grass. Forget the expensive accessories and fertilizers. For under thirty dollars, you can buy a huge bag of grass seed and basic fertilizer. In most cases, this is all you need. The trick is to plant the grass thickly and water just before the evening, so that your grass will not bake.

3) If you need new outdoor garden accessories, compare sales and used items in classified ads. Many building centers have sales on outdoor furniture at this time of year and you may also find gently used accessories through classified ads.

4) DIY your outdoor decor. Rather than buying expensive outdoor decor, get creative and make your own. Look for inspiration online or in magazines and try your hand at making your own flower pots, lanterns, or even a backyard fire pit.

5) Invest in multi-functional pieces. When purchasing outdoor furniture, look for pieces that can serve multiple purposes. For example, a bench that doubles as a storage unit, or a table with a built-in cooler.

6) Shop at discount stores. Don’t overlook discount stores like Walmart or Target for outdoor furniture and decor. They often have great deals and a wide selection of items.

7) Opt for low-maintenance landscaping. Choose plants and landscaping features that require minimal upkeep, such as succulents or a rock garden. This will save you both time and money in the long run.

Remember, creating a beautiful outdoor space doesn’t have to break the bank. With a little creativity and resourcefulness, you can transform your backyard into a relaxing oasis without spending a fortune. If you want to save on more than just your outdoor space, don’t forget to check out our guide to saving cash.…

Eat Like a Student, Save Hundreds

03/03/2023

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| Save Hundreds

College Ernest S. Lunsford has been talking to the media lately about his money-saving ways. He has been giving interviews because he spends a paltry $35 a month on food, putting him well ahead of the game when it comes to keeping student loans and debt low. Most of us spend hundreds of dollars. His is not a regime of dumpster diving, coupons, or sales. It is about planning and careful spending. Here’s how he does it:

1) Reduce waste. Pendergast notes that even careful shoppers waste hundreds of dollars on uneaten and spoiled food each year. Eliminating this waste helps you go further on your grocery budget.

2) Find one free meal a day. Pendergast looks at fliers and posted at his college to find free meals or snacks offered by organizations. Many lectures, workshops, and school events include free snacks or food, which takes care of one meal for Pendergast each day.

3) Do it yourself. Pendergast makes his own bread and chili. He does not, obviously, dine out.

4) Reduce meat. Pendergast only eats meat when someone else pays for it (such as at those college events), because meat, pound for pound, is one of the most expensive foods to buy. Eating vegetarian or vegan can save dollars.

5) Keep tabs on your health. Pendergast used to use free online software to make sure that he was getting enough nutrients from his thrifty meals, but he stopped once he saw that he was getting enough of all nutrients.

6) Plan and think ahead. Budget carefully, compare grocery store prices on the items you need, and shop when a store is offering added discounts.

7) Buy in bulk. Pendergast shops at wholesale clubs and buys larger quantities of non-perishable items, such as rice, beans, and pasta. This allows him to save money per unit and avoid frequent trips to the store.

8) Use generic brands. Pendergast opts for generic or store-brand products instead of name-brand items. In many cases, the quality is the same, but the price is lower.

9) Freeze leftovers. Pendergast freezes any leftovers and uses them for future meals, reducing waste and providing quick and easy meals when he doesn’t have time to cook.

10) Drink water. Pendergast avoids buying expensive drinks and opts for water instead. He notes that many people spend a lot of money on beverages, which can add up quickly.

By following these simple tips, Pendergast is able to save a significant amount of money on his food expenses each month. While some of these strategies may not work for everyone, there are many ways to reduce food costs and eat on a budget. With a little planning and effort, it is possible to eat healthy and save money at the same time.…