How I Got a PS2 for $30: Tips on Getting Something Cheap or FREE!

Often, many people want to find things for cheap or even free because they can't afford it or they just don't want to spend the money. Here are some tips to get an item you want for cheap or even free!

Tip #1
Search your local paper
Often, people will try the local paper to sell something first because it is local and they don't have to pay for shipping and they don't need to take tons of pictures for it because the person can see it in person. My local newspaper has a "bargain basement" section where things selling for under $100 are listed for free for 3 days. There are many great buys here. I bought a prom dress for $25 there once.

Tip #2
Try Yard Sales
During the spring and summer, many people try to sell unwanted things in yard sales. Consult the yard/garage sale section of your local paper for sale and watch for neon colored signs on telephone poles in your area. Often, people will sell things for next to nothing at yard sales because they simply don't need it anymore. I have bought many items of clothing at yard sale for less than $0.25! Also, try church rummage sales; they often have bag sales where you buy a bag for $1-3 and you fill it with as much stuff as you can.

Tip #3
Cheapcycle and Freecycle
Cheapcycle is basically an online yard sale. People post things that they don't want for very cheap and others request them. Then, you meet locally and look at the item and possibly buy it. I actually bought a new playstation 2 from someone selling on cheapcycle. If you type the word cheapcycle and your city name in the search space at Yahoo! Groups, you will find all the groups listed who have used the word in their description. Or, if there isn't a cheapcycle in your area, you could start one yourself. It really is quite easy. Try this website: groups.yahoo.com/group/Cheapcycle_Groups/ for more information. Also, try freecycle. It is the same principle as cheapcycle, except everything is free. Go here for more information and to find a local group.

Tip #4
Swapping sites
There are several swapping sites out there. My favorite is a new one called PoshPoints. Basically, people post items that they want to sell and the amount of points they wish to sell it for. (Generally, one point is equivalent to $1US). As soon as you join, you receive 15 points to start with. You can search around for just about anything and even post a wanted ad for something you don't see. When you want something, you click on buy and you give your name, address, and email address. The package is shipped in less than 3 days. Also, you can sell for free, with no listing fees, but beware because the seller pays for shipping. It really is an amazing site.

I hope you enjoyed this guide and I hope you get something cheap or free as a result of reading this.