10 Things to Buy Used
Garage and yard sales are a great way to save money by buying secondhand goods that are still in great condition and have a lot of life left in them. Here are some items to keep an eye out for when you’re looking through sale items.
Exercise Equipment
There are so many jokes about exercise equipment laying around collecting dust and clothing. Likewise, garage and yard sales are full of abandoned weights, benches, treadmills, elliptical machines and more. Research the brand before pulling the trigger. Look for recalls, especially on powered equipment. Any powered equipment should also be tested before you load it up. Have the seller run an extension cord so you can power it on and make sure it works as advertised.
Things With a Lifetime Warranty
Some brands are famous for their ironclad warranties. Look for these brands at garage sales; they’re great opportunities to get quality at a great price. Brands to look for include Jansport backpacks and luggage, Craftsman, Tupperware, Pampered Chef and more. But do your research first. Many brands have changed their policies in recent years, including only honoring that warranty if you are the original owner.
Tools
Tools, especially hand tools such as hammers and wrenches, are great buys at garage sales. Make sure you test even the most basic tools onsite before you buy, and that goes double for power tools. See that they have all of the required accessories. Look at the power cord carefully for defects, such as wear or splitting.
Sporting Goods
Sporting equipment is another thing that tends to sit around collecting dust before turning up at a yard sale. New equipment can be expensive, so you can get a good deal by opting for a gently used product found at a garage sale as children outgrow equipment or the hobby altogether. As with any product, make sure anything you buy is in good working order and not recalled before you purchase it. Check straps, latches and buckles to make sure they move freely and don’t have any dry rot and are secure.
Bikes are another great deal to snag at garage sales, particularly children’s models that may have been outgrown with just a little use. Don’t discount bikes that may need a little work, either. Refurbishing a used bike is a great way for kids to learn a little about mechanics.
Furniture
Secondhand furniture is a great deal, especially for people furnishing a first apartment or a new house on a budget. They’re also great places to snag vintage pieces for a song. You want to make sure that upholstered furniture is clean and sturdy. For wood furniture, look for sturdy pieces that are in good condition or that you can easily refurbish.