Best buys for April — hunting for spring finds

Weather-wise, it doesn’t feel like April, but here we are! Warmer temperatures are on the way, and with that in mind, we’ve got a whole new list of items you’ll find fall to their lowest prices of the year in the month of April. If you’re in the market for any of the following — hit the stores this month for fabulous savings.

Furniture, clothing, shoes and appliances in local thrift stores: Gang, you and I may not have tackled our household Spring Cleaning yet, but thousands of other households have, bless their hearts. Where does it all wind up? At your local thrift stores, of course. Thanks to these well-organized citizens, your local Goodwill and other thrift stores are close to bursting at the seams, and the selections are fabulous. Stop by to snap up absolute steals on furniture, clothes and so much more.

Produce: Every season has it’s prime-time produce. For the month of April, your best produce steals are going to be on avocados, citrus fruits, beets, broccoli and mushrooms. Enjoy these fruits and veggies with enthusiasm this month — the taste is as its peak, and you’ll find it at some of the lowest costs of the year.

Cars, car accessories, and car parts: Did you know that April is National Car Month? As a result, you’re going to be seeing a lot of sales and promotions in your local parts stores and service centers, so take advantage of them. If you own a car, chances are excellent it’s going to require some sort of maintenance in the month of April— put the sales flyers to good use and get those services for less. To us frugal-minded folks, there’s nothing like that new car (cup holder) smell. If you’re in the market to buy a car, take note that car dealers stock up on inventory in April in anticipation of warmer weather, so beat the crowds and enjoy the better selection of used cars out there, and find yourself a dealer who loves to negotiate. May the Frugal Force be with you.

Vacations: Snuggled in between the crazed holiday travel schedules behind us, and crazed summertime travel schedules ahead of us, you’ll find that sweet travel spot known as springtime. April offers beautiful weather and substantially lower travel costs throughout much of the country. If you’re in the market to travel, connect with an experienced agent and hit the road.

Whether Mother Nature agrees or not, springtime is here — get out there and enjoy it, without breaking the bank.

Frugal On! show host, columnist and author of Brilliant Frugal Living. She cohosts WCHE 1520’s Morning Show, and “Dad and Daughter Talk Real Estate” with local Keller Williams Realtor John Herreid Wednesdays at 3 p.m. (www.johnherreid.com). She was raised in Delaware County, and now resides in Chester County with her husband and kids. You can find her online at www. BrilliantFrugalLiving.com

Kristen Hagopian Brilliant Frugal Living