21 things you should never buy new

Poor, neglected blog!

I like this article on Yahoo, 21 Things You Should Never Buy New. A few comments:

DVDs and CDs: I almost always buy these new, but I also do get them out of the library quite a lot, so I'm probably coming up even there.

Books: Typically, the only books I buy new are gifts. Otherwise I get them out of the library, at book sales, or my favorite: Paperbackswap.com. The recent exceptions are the final two books of the Stieg Larsson series, which I just bought new.

Video Games: Couldn't agree more...when I think of all the $ Chris has wasted buying and selling video games! We have bought some Wii games new, though, when we were too impatient to wait for them to come out used (also, some games rarely get sold back)...namely Wii Rock Band, Beatles Rock Band, Sports Resort, and Fit.

Special Occasion and Holiday Clothing: I've found great holiday dresses and boys' sportcoats and suits at my favorite resale shop, Katelyn's Closet in Multnomah Village. Haven't seen too many prom dresses, though, but I don't have to worry about that!

Jewelry: As you might know, I never buy expensive jewelry, so this is not an issue for me.

Ikea Furniture: Good point about Craigslist. Assembling furniture is no fun, although it is nice to have that great feeling of accomplishment at the end!

Games and Toys: I'm gradually learning not to buy very many games and toys for my kids, because so often they do not end up playing with them much. Buying them secondhand is definitely the way to go...but even then, I only buy inexpensive items because I don't want to waste my $.

Maternity and Baby Clothes: Why buy new, unless you can't find a particular item used?

Musical Instruments: I agree with this point in general, but after a lifetime of playing used musical instruments, it is great to have a new mandolin and guitar! But for kids, I would never buy new. We bought Chris' drum kit at a music store that sells used musical instruments.

Craft Supplies: One of these days, I will get to the Portland store SCRAP. But not until I use the craft supplies already filling my closet!!

Houses and Cars: Goes without saying. We've never owned a new car or house.

This article is a good reminder that many items depreciate in value immediately, or rarely get used and continue to be in good shape. It's easier to get more for your $ if you shop secondhand.