what to buy

What to Buy (and Avoid Buying) in December

Paul Michael — Mon, 01 Dec 2014 22:44:21 +0000

I write this as another day of truly vulgar behavior is behind us. Yes, deals are great. I love them. But I did not go anywhere near the craziness today, and with so many tools now available to us, we don't need to venture into the insane crowds to get bargains. Remember, Black Friday deals are not always what they appear to be, and you can often find better deals on Cyber Monday (without having to set foot in a store). So, with that said, let's look forward to the last shopping month of 2014.

First, What to Buy…

So, it's that time; the Christmas and holiday shopping lists are being made, and it's time to start digging out the best deals to keep everyone happy and your wallet in check. Here are the deals you should pounce on this month.

Gift Cards

If you're smart, you can grab yourself some free money by buying select gift cards that come with incentives. You can get $25 to $50 in free gift cards by spending $150 to $200 on them. If you were planning to shop at those stores anyway, you've just bagged free money. Even places like Chipotle will give you a free burrito for buying a certain amount in gift cards. If you eat their food often, you're golden.

Thanksgiving Merchandise

When Thanksgiving ends, the stores are desperate to dump their stock to fill the shelves with Christmas goodies. Make a space in your basement or attic for the killer deals you'll find on decorations, cards, cookware and much more. There are also going to be huge discounts on Thanksgiving themed food and drink. It's still fresh; it's just got a dated theme. Who cares?!

Thrift Store Goodies

If you aren't shopping in thrift stores, you're missing out on some unbelievable bargains. Most people are too busy with the upcoming holidays to bother listing unwanted items on eBay or Craigslist, so they drop them off at the local ARC or Goodwill. Not only will you find some items in like new condition, you'll also get incredible bargains on items you can resell on eBay for a massive profit. One great find could pay for your whole shopping list, if you know what you're looking for.

Christmas Decorations and Goods

Wait a second. Don't go rushing out for these now. You need to wait until after December 25th. But after that, go hog wild! The stores do not want all that merchandise clogging up their shelves. Expect to see 50% to 90% savings on everything from trees and lights to yard decorations, cards, and gift-wrap. Remember, Christmas will be here again next year, so buy now to save later.

Champagne

It's odd, putting champagne on the discount list when this is the peak month to buy it. But, liquor stores are smart. They know that by making champagne a loss leader, they'll make it back on the other booze you'll buy. However, you don't have to buy anything else — just grab the cheap champagne and celebrate in style.

Cars

As the year comes to a close, and the bad weather comes rushing in, car dealerships are clearing out inventory. They'll drop their prices to do it, and offer huge incentives. If you don't mind braving the weather on those cold, open lots, you could drive into 2014 with a great bargain. However, it's always better to buy used, even if it's just a year old. New cars depreciate quickly.

Homes

Just like car dealerships, sellers of homes have it tough at this time of year. Most just take their homes off the market to ride out the winter months. So if houses are on the market, the sellers are very motivated. Now is the time to do some home hunting, and dare to undercut asking prices by a chunk.

Kitchen Supplies

Manufacturers know this is the season for cooking impulse buys, and they'll do what they can to lure you in. A nicely timed discount will tip people from "maybe next month" to "I'll take it." So with all the different holidays and events coming, you can stock up on new kitchen gadgets and save more than a few bucks. Also, consider wedding gifts, which may be coming up in the spring.

Toys Go Cheap

Deals on lots of toys pop up in December every year, even though they're in high demand. There is insane competition between all the different toys, and so manufacturers are cutting prices to grab your attention. It's good news for you and the kids, but there is a catch — you'll have to wait until Mid-December.

Tool Prices Are Cut

It's not a great time to be doing DIY, but it's a great time to stock up on the essentials everyone needs to get the jobs done. You'll see prices cut on all sorts of tools and equipment, from power drills (go for Lithium batteries) and bench saws to screwdrivers, wrench sets, and sanders.

And, What to Avoid…

With the exception of Cyber Monday, there are some deals that are too good to be true in December. With 2015 quickly approaching, you may see some good offers on older equipment, gadgets, and appliances. Make sure you're okay with dated products before you dive in. Here are other things to avoid this month.

Gym Memberships

I said it last year, and I'll say it again. Gym memberships and subscriptions hit a peak in the New Year, and they are starting to see those increase in December. A lot of people like to have the membership in place, so that they can get straight down to the hard work in the first week of January. It's going to be this way for a while, so just find another way to stay fit. Craigslist will have some killer deals thanks to new equipment for Christmas.

Electronics

Aside from Cyber Monday, the best deals for your electronic gadgets have come and gone. What's more, any deals you may find will be on the 2014 stock that retailers are trying to clear out before the 2015 goodies arrive in the New Year. Do yourself a favor, and wait it out.

Jewelry

People love giving jewelry at this time of year. And when people love doing something, retailers love charging them top dollar for it. So unless you really have to drop some of your cash on rings, necklaces, and other sparkling items, wait until next year for that pricey item.

Calendars

Unless you absolutely have to put a brand new calendar up on the stroke of midnight on New Year's Eve, you should steer clear of calendars. They are expensive right now. Full price, everywhere you look. But come a few weeks into 2015, the prices will start to fall like the rain in Seattle. You can expect to save at least 50%, and when February comes around, stores everywhere will be almost giving them away. Really, with the smartphones and tablets, does anyone really need them as reminders anymore?

Winter Gear and Clothing

It's cold out there. Snow shovels, big coats, hats, gloves, boots, and all the other winter gear is marked at full price for the next few months. If you really need them now, consider Craigslist or thrift stores to save some cash.

From everyone here at Wise Bread, have a wonderful holiday, and a prosperous 2015!

This article is from Paul Michael of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

What to Buy (and Avoid Buying) in November

Paul Michael — Fri, 31 Oct 2014 21:00:05 +0000

Halloween, Thanksgiving, and the holidays are way too close together, aren't they? You barely have time to recover from one before the next festive occasion is on top of you. And that means it's more important than ever to maximize your budget, and your savings, when you go shopping. Once again, we've been looking around to let you in on the deals of the month, and the pitfalls.

First, What to Buy…

The big, big shopping day of November is Black Friday. So called because it was traditionally a day when stores went from being in the red (or in debt) to being in the black (or profitable), it's now synonymous with large crowds, crazy shopping sprees, early morning doorbusters, and those inevitable fights after standing inline for four hours. But you don't have to wait until Black Friday for great deals. Look out for these starting November 1st.

Halloween Everything

The day after Halloween (and sometimes the evening of Halloween) the stores will start clearing out their stock of spooky merchandise. That's great news for anyone who is celebrating Halloween on Saturday or Sunday night this year, as you can bag a last-minute costume for at least 50% off. Stores like Target and Walmart will start slashing prices after a few weeks, with $50 and $60 costumes going on sale for less than $10. If you have plans for a costume for 2015, see if you can grab a bargain now. You can always store the really cheap ones, and sell them for a profit before next Halloween.

Candy

Hot on the heels of the costumes and accessories, Halloween candy gets slashed early this month. Remember, this is all perfectly safe to eat, with expiration dates months (or even years) off. Of course, the pumpkins and ghouls make it seasonal, and it has to go. So, if you don't mind some out-of-date wrappers (and who does?) grab yourself some sweet treats.

Laptops and Notebooks

The smaller the better, as far as pricing goes. This month, you will see stellar savings on laptops and notebooks. If the sales are anything like last year, you can expect to pick up a decent 13" laptop for around $200 including taxes. Just a few years ago, these laptops would have been double that price. Apple typically sells their stock a little cheaper this month, but don't expect amazing deals. Even with the company floundering compared to its Steve Jobs days, it still doesn't like putting bargain prices out there.

Sneakers and Summer Footwear

If you're a sneaker and sandals fan, November is your month. The winter shoes are coming out, and the summer stock is being cleared fast. But, people are still going on vacations to sunnier places, and it won't be long before the warmer weather is back here again. Do a little online shopping and expect to see the price of great sneakers drop by at least 50%.

Wedding Dresses and Paraphernalia

When it's cold and grey outside, those wedding day photos can look pretty grim. Very few people like getting married in the winter months, and so they're not going shopping for the wedding dress and other accessories. Even if your wedding is in July or August, pick up a dress now. The bridal stores get large stocks of wedding dresses in at this time of year, ready for the rush after the Christmas and New Year engagements. Take advantage of that, and browse the empty stores with a bargain in mind.

Turkeys

Thanksgiving month is turkey month. So you'd think, with turkeys being in high demand, that the prices are high, too. Well, far from it. The turkey breeders have been preparing all year for this month, and it's when a glut of turkeys hits the market. It's cheaper to buy turkey at this time of year than any other, and if you plan wisely, you can even pick up a decent one for free. Yes, some stores will be offering free turkeys to people spending a certain amount of money. It varies by store, so check your local papers and online ads.

Toys Are a Strong Bet

As we noted last year, you no longer have to wait for until Black Friday, or early December, for the toy bargains. As Black Friday is now more focused on electronics, computers, appliances, and loss leaders like DVDs and Blu-rays, toys are getting overlooked. So the retailers are dropping the prices earlier. Also, Saturday, November 8th is Neighborhood Toy Store Day. You'll see a lot of promotions around that.

Kitchen Gear

As the season of cooking and eating comes into full effect, you'll notice bargains in the kitchen and appliance aisles of your local retailers. Last year saw a record number of deals in these departments, particularly pots and pans and baking dishes, so now is the perfect time to stock up on essentials, before the holiday rush.

HDTVs

At this point, there won't be a month that goes by without HDTVs being hot items. Yet again, prices are dropping, this time fueled by the Black Friday madness. And it's not madness to tell you that on Black Friday itself, you will be able to pick up 60-inch 1080p sets for just over $400. Actually, I take it back… that's just nuts. You'll also be able to pick up a 42-inch 1080p set for under $200, which is just as crazy. Remember though, these deals come with long lines, and the inevitable pushing and shoving. Don't get caught up in the insanity.

And, What to Avoid

November is actually one of the best months for shopping. There are not a lot of landmines, or shopping traps, to avoid. But based on the last few years, there are a few so-called "deals" that you should stay away from. Here's what to avoid.

Travel Deals

The travel season is just starting to heat up, and so the deals are not yet worth looking at. You'll see modest price reductions on a select number of vacation packages, but as demand for booking vacations is so high, the prices stay high as well. Wait a while. However, you should see some nice deals on hotel rooms around this time, especially if you fancy booking a fancy suite in Vegas on Thanksgiving Day or Christmas Day. Hey, some people do it, and they save a bundle.

Winter Clothing and Gear

It's a no-brainer. Avoid the brand new selections of outerwear, including coats and jackets, skiing equipment, boots, winter shoes, gloves, scarves, and the usual rosy-cheeked accessories. This is not the time to go shopping for the upcoming winter season. Wait until January, and the prices will plummet.

The iPad Mini 3

It's slightly new and improved. But not really. For the extra money you'll pay for it, you won't see much of a difference. Save your money, you can bag some huge bargains on Black Friday, and the iPad Mini 2 is just as good. Is Apple going to do anything innovative anytime soon? It doesn't look like it.

Do you have any purchasing plans this month?

This article is from Paul Michael of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

What to Buy (and Avoid Buying) in October

Paul Michael — Wed, 01 Oct 2014 22:25:19 +0000

Boo! Yes, it's that time of year again (as I get older, and my kiddos do too, I feel it creeping up on me more quickly every year). Halloween is here. That means Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year, Hanukkah, Kwanza, and Diwali, are all approaching. With them come things to buy. However, these tips should help you save your hard-earned cash and stretch it a little further in the last stretch of 2014 and on into 2015.

First, What to Buy

October 16th is Boss's Day; if you have a boss, and want to stay in their good graces before holiday bonuses get handed out, you may want to consider getting him or her a little treat. Of course, the biggest time for treats, and tricks, is October 31st. Are you ready for it? Well, here are some deals to help you keep more of your money in your pockets before the big day.

Lawn Care & Equipment

Many of us are looking around for deals on winterization. That means it's time to shut down the gardening regime for the winter, and retail stores know it. Target, Walmart, Walgreens, Sears and other major chains will be doing their best to clear out what's left of the summer lawn care stock. If you can find them, you'll also find killer deals on everything from hoses and rakes to fertilizer and insect repellent.

Cruises and Vacations

If you're looking to save some money on a getaway, you can't beat cruise prices right now. I've seen deals for four nights in the Bahamas for two, with kids, for under $300. You can even get them under $200 if you're going as a couple. Check them out but make sure you include the price of airfare to and from the departure city. That often trips people up. It's also off-season for traditional vacations, and that means great deals on packages including hotel and flight.

Halloween Deals (Be Careful)

Yes, there are Halloween deals coming. November 1st is when the first big sales will hit, and by November 15th the stores are almost giving them away. But that's no use to you if you want a deal for this year's Halloween. So, consider buying just a week or two before the big night. Look for deals at online stores, eBay, and consider costumes that may not be as popular next year (for instance, is anyone going to be talking about Frozen with the same vigor? Well, maybe not).

Cars

Now, it has to be said that buying a new car is not good financial sense. The second you drive it off the lot it loses a significant amount of value. A car that's just a year or two old is a much better deal, and will have low mileage and a lot of the warranty left on it. However, if you must have a new car, this is the month to go shopping. September is when new models are released, so the dealerships don't want old stock littering the tarmac. Find the True Car Value, haggle like crazy, and never be afraid to walk away. You'll get a major deal.

Denim and Jeans

It was the same story last year; for some bizarre reason, there's a glut of denim and jeans on the store shelves right now. Yes, you can blame some of the bargains on back-to-school, but whatever the reason, take advantage of it. Children and adults alike can snag great deals on brand name denim clothing, and even bigger deals on store brand from Target and Walmart.

Grills

Just like lawn care, the grilling season is behind us. That means great deals for outdoor chefs, and the weather is still mild enough to get a few more weeks (or months) of use out of a brand new grill. Of course, if you're a brave chef you'll be out there in the snow and ice cooking up steaks and corn like a pro.

Patio Furniture and Camping Gear

Another no-brainer, but it has to be said. Patio furniture and camping gear is not on anyone's shopping list right now. Do you want to sit outside in the rain and snow? So, stores are trying to shift it quickly. Sure, you may have to wait several months to take full advantage of new patio furniture and tents, but who cares when the prices are this low?

Air Conditioning

When it's cold outside, it's not necessary to make it cold inside. Most people are not concerned with getting a new air conditioner, or upgrading, which is why the month is a great time to start looking. Places like Sears will give you some great deals, and many private A/C firms will do deals on installation. Many will even throw in a free furnace, and that 's smart thinking with winter coming.

iPads

Just before Halloween, Apple will launch yet another new version of its iPad. If you want to get a deal on an iPad, expect the price of the current model to drop when this happens. You won't see any significant drop from Apple around Black Friday anyway, so grab a deal when you can.

And, What to Avoid

There's more to watch out for in Halloween than ghosts and goblins. Here are a few items you should strike from your list unless you absolutely have to have them.

Winter Clothing and Shoes

It makes sense, but so many people seem to rush out and grab the first items they see. The stores are not going to run out, but they are not going to discount anything significantly right now. Most of us are thinking about buying long sleeved shirts, jackets, boots, and even umbrellas. That means demand is high. So, unless you spy a genuine bargain, avoid shopping for these items and try the second hand market instead.

Appliances

Following Halloween comes the biggest shopping day of the year — Black Friday. Appliances will be discounted BIG TIME this year, so wait a month or so. If you need something like a washer or dryer, consider using a Laundromat or asking a friend or relative to help. Of course, if your fridge or freezer is out, waiting will be tough. Just know, the biggest discounts are coming.

HDTVs

Again, Black Friday will serve up the biggest deals of the year for large screen TVs. No one really needs one of these, so bide your time and wait. Expect to see 55" TVs for as low as $350 (it pains me to write this… I bought a 48" TV for $399 and thought that was a great deal). You will always pay more for the big brand names though, so don't expect to get a high-end TV for that rock-bottom price.

Tools

Black Friday is a good time for tools. If you can wait until then you'll save yourself a pretty penny. Of course, if you need something now, avoid the major retailers and try discount stores like Harbor Freight Tools. They have great deals all year round.

Gift Wrap

Just hit up a dollar store for this. The major holidays are coming, and retail stores will push expensive cards, gift wrap, tissue paper, and boxes. The best bet for saving money is to avoid retail stores and visit the dollar stores instead. They do paper and boxes that are every bit as good and will not break the bank. After all, it all goes in the trash.

What are you planning to save on this month? Please share in comments!

This article is from Paul Michael of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

What to Buy (and Avoid Buying) in September

Paul Michael — Fri, 29 Aug 2014 21:00:04 +0000

Once again, we're heading into the home stretch; the big shopping days are going to be here in no time. Black Friday, Holidays, New Year, it's all just around the corner. But for many of us, there are still a few great months of sunshine. And whatever the weather, there are always great bargains to grab, if you know what you're looking for. Here's the list for September.

First, What to Buy…

Obviously September kicks off with Labor Day, and you'll find a lot of retails stores taking advantage of that long weekend. This is also the month we kick off Oktoberfest (yes, it starts on September 21st) and cheese pizza day (September 5th). But if those aren't appealing, check out the following deals.

Coffee Deals Are Brewing

September is home to National Coffee Day. On the 29th, you will see a wave of free coffee promotions, as well as heavily discounted products. Look beyond the usual places (Starbucks, Dunkin' Donuts, Caribou) and check out 7-Eleven, McDonald's, and supermarkets.

Patio Goes On Sale

Patio deals have been hot for weeks, but now the stores are really looking to shift the remaining stock quickly. If you can find the goods (many places have already cleared out their patio furniture and accessories), you can expect to see 70% or more off on tables, chairs, outdoor rugs, umbrellas, storage boxes, lighting, and more. You should still have some time this year to enjoy it all.

Lawn and Garden Madness

Along with patio, the other great outdoor pursuit is going on sale — gardening. A quick stroll through any major retailer will soon show you much they want to dump lawn and garden products. Prices are being slashed across the board, including tools, lawn mowers, hoses, plants, shrubs, and trees. The last few months before your first frost are also a good time to plant certain landscaping bushes and plants, so grab those deals now.

Summer Clothes

They're way out of fashion now. Meaning, most people are wearing them, but not really planning to buy any more. Why bother? Well, summer will be here again next year, and unless you absolutely have to have the latest high-street fashions, this is a good time to stock up. Get them now, seal them in vacuum bags, and they'll be ready for 2014. Also look for swimsuits, summer hats, shorts, flip flops, sandals, and even sunscreen deals.

Get a New "Old" Car

There are four months left in 2014, but the dealerships are already looking to push the 2015 models on you. These are great cars, they're just not the latest models, but the dealership knows it will have a hard time shifting old stock. A lot of people want the latest, greatest cars. Don't be one of them. If you want a new motor, now is the time to start shopping. Expect to see some great 0% financing deals, as well as 10%-20% off incentives, and extra cash back offers.

Small Appliances

Big appliances are to be avoided, but their smaller cousins are on sale this month. Take a look at stores like Target, Sears, WalMart, Kohls, and JCPenney for bargain microwaves, toasters, mixers, handheld vacuums, and countertop gadgets.

Laptops

If you still don't have a laptop, this is another good month to go shopping. The prices continue to drop on laptops, or they remain steady but include greater spec for the same money. Also, there are a few back-to-school laptop deals still hanging around, so shop around and get a laptop bargain.

Baby Stuff

Strollers. Cribs. High chairs. Walkers. Bouncers. You name it, you'll see discounts on them in September. And with Christmas quickly approaching, it could be a good time to grab some bargains as gifts for those people you know with a little one in the house.

Jewelry

The jewelers have good months (February, May, June, October — December) and they have bad months. This is one of those bad months. Nothing is going on. There is no reason to go out there and buy shiny trinkets for anyone, other than birthdays or anniversaries. You will see bargains everywhere. Get a few now, and avoid the price hikes coming in the next few months.

And, What to Avoid…

There are lots of deals this month, but there are a few things to avoid. You will probably guess that a certain huge holiday is just around the corner, and that kicks off our list.

Halloween Gear

Next month, almost two months from now to be honest, is one of the biggest holidays in the retail calendar. Right now, you will see shelves piled high with Halloween goodies, but the prices are scary too. You need to be very careful here. Shop around, wait for deals to come. The best time to buy is November 1st, for obvious reasons.

Large Appliances

The big fridges, dishwashers, ranges, washers and dryers are all going on sale this month. But they won't be bargains. Unless you really have to have it, wait until that wonderful day in November — Black Friday. That's when the biggest discounts of the year will happen.

Fall Clothing and Footwear

You know the aisles are full of fall clothing right now. It's what's hot. And when anything is hot, it is not a deal. Stay away from fall clothing until the Halloween gear goes on sale.

Office Supplies

The few remaining back-to-school sales are about to fizzle out. And once that happens, you start paying full retail price on your school and office supplies. If you see a back-to-school sale, take advantage of it now.

2015 Car Models

Everyone wants a big shiny new car. That's why the prices are so high. Leave them alone and go for last year's model. It's almost the same and comes with a ton of discounts.

What are you planning to buy this month? Any deals you've been looking forward to?

This article is from Paul Michael of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

What to Buy (and Avoid Buying) in August

Paul Michael — Fri, 01 Aug 2014 21:00:03 +0000

Are we officially at the end of summer? Well, Hobby Lobby seems to think so. Last week, with the temperatures blazing at almost 100 degrees in Colorado, Hobby Lobby had filled the front of their store with pre-lit Christmas trees! And the aisles were full of Christmas items, too. Next year, I expect to see Christmas decorations at Easter. But this does mean you are going to see some great clearance deals soon, on items you can hardly believe are already on sale. (See also: Shopping Calendar: The Best Time to Buy Anything)

Without further ado, here are the best and worst things to buy in August.

What to Buy…

And here are the deals in store for you this month.

Back-to-School Is On

This is the time to grab your kids' school gear cheap. Of course, the usual clothing and school supplies, including backpacks, will be on sale. Also look out for great deals in places like Gap, American Eagle, Aeropostale, Buckle, and even Levi's. You'll also find deals on everything from dorm furniture to cheap storage. As usual, electronic deals for students will be popular, including laptops and accessories. And remember, tax free holidays in many states give you additional savings between August 1-3.

Target Slashing Toys

At the beginning of August, you'll see clearance deals in Target on a ton of toys, board games, and action figures. Target's aisle ends have been filled with 30% off deals, and a quick jaunt through a few of their stores yesterday revealed 50% and 70% stickers being applied with great abandon. Christmas is almost certainly going to happen again this year, so take advantage of these deals now and get more back for you gift buck.

Smaller LCD TVs Are Priced to Sell

Perhaps the college kids are the reason behind the TV pricing insanity, but smaller-sized TVs (up to 42 inches) are dropping in price by the week. As hard as it is for some people to believe (or admit…like me) that 42 inch TV you paid $1500 for can now be picked up for $299. And it will be the higher-quality LCD, not plasma. You really can afford to put a big TV in every room in the house now. (Although, do you really want to?)

Patio Deals Aplenty

There is still plenty of good weather left for grilling, but the big retailers don't want that patio furniture cluttering their aisles. They'd rather you took it off their hands, and they're cutting costs to make it a very attractive proposition for you. Now. You can pick up bargains of 40% to 60% off, and stores like Target, Walmart, and Sears will continue slashing prices throughout August. As always though, the longer you wait, the less choice you'll have. But when the 90% off sales hit at the end of the month, you'll be laughing all the way to next year's BBQ.

Swimwear

As the summer sales heat up, swimwear once again makes it into the clearance racks. If you're in the market for a new bathing suit, grab it now. Last minute vacation shopping later in the year is not the time to get your swimwear. You'll be disappointed.

Grills Are Flavor of the Month

August is one of the best months to get your grill on, and some of the monster grills and smokers will be on sale this month. As always, the longer you wait, the less choice you will have. Expect to see gas and charcoal grills on sale for up to 50% off, and even more by the end of the month.

Summer Clothing

Tees, shorts, and flip-flops are already being cut by 25%-30% as the stores start to swap out summer gear for the longer sleeves and covered toes of fall. That's good news for many of us, especially people like me who wear tees the whole year round. By the end of August, you'll see 75% off a lot of these summer clothes, but as always, the cheaper prices come with less choice.

Laptops

This is starting to become a regular on the "what to buy" list. As technology gets less expensive, and new models replace old ones very quickly, you can take advantage of the tech deals that bring laptops in at record low prices. Just $300 can buy you a machine with a decent spec, and for the extra few hundred, you can get a PC laptop that will give a $2000 MacBook a run for its money. As always, shop around and look for rebates. You can also get great extra discounts on display models, as long as the warranty is intact.

Lawn and Yard Supplies

My grass has been green for just two months. So it makes sense that the stores would now start deeply discounting lawn, yard, and garden supplies at a hectic rate, right? Well, by now the prep work, fertilizing, and raking is pretty much done, with the next big date on the calendar being fall preparation. If you need a new hose, a shovel, a wheelbarrow, or even a stockpile of seeds, now is the time to go shopping. If you want a pool for your backyard, this is also a great time to go shopping.

What to Avoid

Don't bother with any of this stuff. Just know that eventually it'll move to the "What to Buy" category.

Everything Apple

Not the delicious fruit, but rather the expensive tech. Apple has a very strict product release schedule, and new models typically come out in late September and early October. That means you will not see good deals on Apple products until we get much closer to that time of year. Then, the next generation of products will ensure price drops on the current models.

Smart Watches

This time last year, smartphones were to be avoided. Now, it's smart watches' turn. They're just not at a place yet where they are mass-market, feature-packed, and reliable, and thus the price is not good. If you're seriously looking into a smart watch, wait a few more months.

Fall Clothing

The stores will be starting to stock up on fall clothing, and you won't see any discounts on these yet. The long sleeved sweaters and warm jackets will be hot items for many, and those who like to stock up on the latest fashions early will pay the price.

Do you have any purchase plans this month? Let us know in comments!

This article is from Paul Michael of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

What to Buy (and Avoid Buying) in July

Paul Michael — Tue, 01 Jul 2014 17:00:05 +0000

It feels like Easter was only a few weeks ago, and yet we're already halfway through the year. July is here, and with it some decent savings are also arriving. If you also have decent weather, you may get to enjoy many of your deals in the sunshine. Here's hoping. (See also: Shopping Calendar: The Best Time to Buy Anything)

First, What to Buy in July…

There's a big, big holiday at the start of the month. Independence Day will bring a bunch of savings to the websites and retail stores. Here's where you can expect to save some money this July.

Mattresses

For some reason, the usual Memorial Day sales are going to continue into Independence Day. That's good news if you didn't bag a cheap mattress in May. For instance, Sears is currently dropping the price of its mattresses by 60%, with additional savings when you finance and an extra 10% off mattresses over $599. Mattress Firm, Macy's, and other retail stores are also slashing prices. These are great deals that you definitely won't be losing any sleep over.

Patio Furniture

As always, the stores are ahead of us by a month or two. You are going to see some significant savings on patio furniture at the end of July. Target and Sears have already begun slashing the prices of umbrellas, tables, chairs, and hammocks by 25-60%. If you've you've been holding out for a deck box or a new patio set, now is the time to start looking. Remember, the discounts get bigger the closer we get to fall, but right now you have the pick of the litter. Later on, the deals are big, but the choice is small.

Grills

Some people haven't even fired up their grills yet, and they already going on sale in the stores. Don't expect amazing deals just yet, but you will see around 25% reductions on big name brands like Char-Broil, Weber, Coleman, Kenmore, and Brinkmann. While you shop for grills, don't forget grill accessories like covers, tools and floor mats. They are often discounted to get you looking in the grill aisle.

Back to School Items

Clothing. Supplies. Shoes. Backpacks. By the end of the month, you'll see a lot of these items heavily discounted from stores like Target, Walmart, Kohl's, JCPenney and Old Navy. Of course, once the kids are actually back in school, you'll see bigger reductions on things like backpacks and pencil cases. But don't let that stop you; there are great deals out there now.

Big Screen TVs (But There's a Catch)

Isn't every month a good month for a big screen TV these days? Well, yes and no. This month, you're not going to see a lot of deals on the big brand name sets from the likes of LG, Sony, and Philips. And if you're looking for something over 60", you can forget it. But if you're okay with lesser brands like Magnavox, RCA, Coby, Sanyo, Insignia, and TCL, you should find yourself some sweet savings. Just check out the reviews before you throw down any cash.

Laptops, Again

Will they be giving laptops away with cereal boxes soon? Well, maybe that's extreme, but the deals just keep on coming for laptops, and July is a great month to pick one up for a lot less money. You can get yourself an incredible system for less than $400 now, and if you up your budget to $600, expect 1080p widescreen displays, impressive speed, and bags of storage. Touchscreen systems will be discounted the most, but be warned. They're cheaper because they're not selling well, and that indicates that consumers aren't interested in a touchscreen laptop. This is not a tablet.

Tools and DIY Gear

June kissed goodbye to another Father's Day, and now retailers want to shift a lot of tools, paint, and other DIY supplies. You'll see a lot of Father's Day branded items at 70%-90% off, including a lot of dad-inspired clothing, cups, plates, and other goodies. The nice weather means people can do a lot of projects around the home, but are often tempted to sit by the pool and grill up BBQ instead. Great deals on DIY products may have you thinking a little different.

Vacations

This is not the month to take a vacation, but it is definitely the month to start planning one. You'll find good deals for late August and early September, and if you get in there now, you can save money and have better seats and hotel rooms. Of course, if you really want to save some cash, book a holiday at unexpected times and places. Vegas just after Christmas is a ghost town, and you will see massive reductions on high-end hotel rooms.

And, What to Avoid Buying…

July can also trip you up on so-called "deals" that are simply too good to be true, or not worth your time yet. Here is a list of the July landmines to avoid.

Air Conditioners and Swamp Coolers

The high heat brings high prices on cooling aids. You won't find many great deals out there on A/C systems, window air conditioners, and swamp coolers. If you are really short of cash but need some cooling down, use a few tactics to keep your home cooler:

Use window treatments that block out the sunlight.
Install a window fan to suck the hot air out during the day, and pull in cooler air at night.
And you could even repaint the home with a lighter, more reflective color to help keep things cool.

The Stripped Down Apple iMac

People complain about the price of Apple products, and most would agree that you get way more bang for your buck when you buy a competitor's brand. Apple must be feeling the pinch, because they've brought out a cheaper iMac. But Apple being Apple, they have stripped down some major features, including storage space and graphics capabilities. Don't bother with this one.

Swimwear

Although grills and patio furniture are going on sale, the swimwear for summer is not benefiting from the same "logic." People are only just starting to take the plunge in community pools, vacation spots, and water parks. Next month, you should see a sharp drop in prices as retailers make way for fall clothing. And you'll still have a few months of good weather to enjoy them.

Sunglasses

You know the score. High demand equals high price. Everyone's out and about in the sunshine, and they need eye protection. Wait a month or two and you'll find some great deals on cool shades. By the way, do you know which city leads America in sunglasses sales? According to a study by the P.E.O., it's Seattle. Perhaps they're always losing them because they rarely need them!

Do you have any purchase plans this month? Please share in comments!

This article is from Paul Michael of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

What to Buy (and Avoid Buying) in June

Paul Michael — Mon, 02 Jun 2014 10:00:40 +0000

June. For some of us, it's a welcome break from the rain and wind. For others, that stormy weather is still hanging on and making summer seem way off in the distance. Wherever you stand, there are bargains to be had and "deals" to avoid. Here's a roundup of the best and worst things to buy in June. (See also:Shopping Calendar:The Best Time to Buy Anything)

First, What to Buy…

June starts off with Dare Day, so if you're feeling brave, this could be a great start to the month for you. Other odd holidays include Best Friends Day (June 8th) and National Splurge Day (June 18th, be careful). Of course, the traditional holiday, Father's Day, is the one most of us keep top of mind. Here are some deals that could help save some money this month.

Lingerie

Ladies and gentlemen, the sale that only comes around twice a year is back. The Victoria's Secret Semi-Annual sale is on again in June, meaning great deals on panties (look out for a FREE panty coupon in the mail) and bras, as well as all the other lingerie in store. In the spirit of competition, other lingerie outlets will also slash prices this month. This could be a good time to stock up on gifts for birthdays, anniversaries, and even Valentine's Day.

Donuts Are FREE

Yes, June 6th is National Donut Day, and to celebrate this fact all of the major donut chains, and some supermarkets, will be giving away a free donut to every customer. If you were so inclined, you could spend the day hitting up every location and get yourself a nice big supply of one of the nation's favorite treats. But that would be quite the task.

Caribbean Vacations

Hurricanes descend upon the Caribbean this month. That makes a lot of holidaymakers nervous about taking a cruise or booking a package trip. But remember, it's only the beginning of hurricane season, and the odds of getting hit by something huge are pretty small. But, nervous people means low prices. You will get some pretty great deals on packages and cruises.

Father's Day Remnants

Once Father's Day has come and gone, you can grab some serious bargains on anything that has been branded with Father's Day messaging. Anything from "#1 Dad" aprons to beer glasses, T-shirts, ties, and cards will be going for a song. If you like to plan ahead, now is the time to pick up deals for next Father's Day. This also applies to graduation goodies.

Touchscreen Laptops

It seems hard to believe that these technological marvels can be priced so affordably, but you can now pick up a budget 11.6" touchscreen laptop for the unbelievable price of $200. A few years ago, that would have been four times the price. If you're willing to spend a little more, you can get 15" models for between $300-$400.

Gardening Items

Already? It seems odd to think that gardening supplies will be going on sale, as the season for spending time outdoors has just arrived. But you will find deals on some gardening supplies by the end of June. Remember, stores are always months ahead, and fall items will always take priority over summer stock.

Go Fishing

Along with the myriad other holidays this month, June is also home to National Fishing and Boating Week. That means FREE fishing, no license required. To tempt you into the water (or onto the riverbank) you will see some nice savings on fishing equipment and other gear. Check out Take Me Fishing for more info.

And What to Avoid…

June 1st is "Flip a Coin" day. However, if you know what's good for you, you won't leave your bargain hunting to chance. Here are the deals to avoid.

4K TVs Are Not Looking Good

4K is the new standard in TV resolution. You may already own a Blu-ray player that will up-res your discs to 4K. But as the technology is so new, the pricing has not started to drop yet. If you want one of the latest TVs, you'll have to wait, probably until Black Friday. But there are still great deals to be had on LED and LCD big screen TVs.

Stay Away From Grills

Summer is not here yet (officially), so the stores are prepping with barbecue items, outdoor gear, and grills. Some big retailers may try to tempt you with prices like 10%-15% off, but you'll be kicking yourself if you splurge now. Wait a while, if you can, and the prices will be slashed in a few months, with plenty of good weather left for grilling.

Apple Products

Hold off on buying anything Apple until the company makes its announcements on the new models coming to the market. The Mac Pro G6 is already available, at a price that will make most budgets whither and die (seriously Apple, $4000 for a computer?). But when new versions of current products are announced, you will see older versions drop in price.

Tools Are Not a Good Buy

Father's Day is in mid-June, and tools are the hot item of the month. The stores know it, too, and you'll see only tiny price cuts, if any, on just a select few items. Wait for the Father's Day heat to die down, and in a few months you'll get way more bang for your buck.

Don't Do Disney

Recent pricing reports indicate that Disney holidays are very popular and are being priced accordingly. Whenever anything is in high demand, the price spikes. And just by waiting until August, instead of June, you could save enough money to take an extra person with you for the same price.

Do you have any purchases planned for June? Please let us know in comments!

This article is from Paul Michael of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

What To Buy (and Avoid Buying) in May

Paul Michael — Thu, 01 May 2014 09:12:24 +0000

As the weather continues to hammer certain parts of the US, it's hard to believe that summer is just around the corner. For many of us, spring is hardly getting the chance to poke its head through the dark clouds. But, there are May bargains to be had, and if you know what to look for you can save a bundle. Oh, and Mother's Day is on May 11th, so if you haven't started looking yet, use the list below for some money-saving gift ideas.

What to Buy

Memorial Day is in May, and that brings some very memorable bargains with it. If you're looking for deals on certain items, the top ones are listed here.

1. Spring Clothing

Even though it's still technically spring, the retail stores are preparing for summer. And to make way for all the beach balls and sun loungers, they're dumping spring clothing by the truckload. Expect discounts of 50%-75% on light jackets, long sleeved tees, and other merchandise reserved for mild weather. Remember, Memorial Day (May 26) is coming, but the longer you wait for bargains, the less choice you'll have. Empty racks are not much fun to browse.

2. Mattresses

Memorial Day is mattress day! We still don't know the link between remembering our fallen heroes and saving money on a bed, if someone knows why please let us know. Anyway, if the saggy, lumpy bed is ready to hit the curb, now is the time to replace it for less than you'd spend during the rest of the year. Traditional coil/spring mattresses will be the best bargains, but expect to see competitive pricing on memory foam and air-filled specialty mattresses, too. (See also: The 5 Best Mattresses)

3. Kitchen Goodies

Retailers are targeting college grads and the start of wedding season with discounts on cookware, small appliances, and refrigerators (if you give a fridge as a wedding gift, you are awesome). Keep an eye out for stellar deals on pots and pans, cutlery, microwave ovens, blenders, coffee makers, and knife sets.

4. BIG HDTVs

As every year passes, the big HDTV sets (55" to 60") become more and more affordable. This year is no exception, and you can now replace your old 42" LCD TV for a 60" monster, at around a third of the price you probably paid for it. Shop around, and you can walk out of the door with a massive flat screen TV with change from $600. And what's more, the screen resolution will be beautiful. Don't expect any kind of discount on the new curved HDTV sets though. (See also: The 5 Best 3D TVs)

5. Mother's Day Leftovers

As mentioned above, Mother's Day is May 11th. Before that Sunday, prices on traditional gifts for mom will be high. But by May 12th, expect Mother's Day branded chocolates, flowers, fragrances, cards, and perfumes to be heavily discounted.

6. Party Supplies

As it's not peak season (yet) for parties, the stores will be stocking up and tempting you to take the goods. This is particularly true of grilling supplies like charcoal, plasticware, tablecloths, napkins, and condiments. There are also college grad parties, and Father's Day is in June. So get the deals now, before you have to pay for last minute goodies.

7. Office Furniture

Just like last month, you can still find great deals on office furniture and supplies. In particular, look for great deals on office chairs, filing cabinets, safes, and bookcases. If your home office is looking drab, this is a great time to add a little freshness to the look and feel.

What to Avoid

May has its fair share of "bargains" that are far from being good deals. Avoid the following, and wait until the offers are worth the trip.

1. Beef — It's Not for Dinner This Month

Although it's not quite peak season for grilling, many of us are pulling the covers off the barbecues and getting ready to cook in the outdoors again. If you must have the smell of brats and burgers in your nostrils, opt for pork, turkey, and chicken products. And stay away from the big ribeyes, t-bones, and filets that will take a chunk out of your monthly food budget.

2. Grills

Be it charcoal, wood, gas, or a combination, grills are hot products right now. And that means the prices are not. Give your wallet a break, and get a used grill from Craigslist. Some people just can't wait to have a bigger, brighter grill, and you'll get a great used model for pennies on the dollar.

3. Jewelry

Moms love jewelry. And as Mother's Day is on May 11th, you will see high demand at the beginning of the month for sparkling gifts of all shapes and sizes. But jewelry doesn't go off either (unless is has Mother's Day messaging on it), so it won't be going on sale right after. Give the bling a miss, and think of something that will not break the bank.

4. Laptops

You will find some OK deals on laptops in May, but the best time to buy them is in the Back to School sales. If you can hold out, you'll get some great deals in mid-July.

5. Patio Furniture

Big retailers have already started discounting their outdoor furniture, but not by much. 15% off here and there is not worth your time. You will get massive savings later in the summer, when the shelves are being stocked with items for fall. Check your local thrift stores and Craigslist for good deals on patio furniture and outdoor rugs.

Are you planning to make any big (or small!) purchases this May? What deals are you seeing?

This article is from Paul Michael of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

What to Buy (and Avoid Buying) in April

Paul Michael — Wed, 02 Apr 2014 08:48:20 +0000

For some, April is sunny skies and green grass. But in many parts of the US, there are all sorts of issues with the weather. Is it time to buy for summer, or spring, or winter? Well, let's take a look at the bargains and budget busters that are in stores right now.

First, What to Buy…

Well, most people have done their taxes by now (if you haven't, you better get cracking!). If you have a refund, here are some items that will give you more bang for your buck. (See also: 50 Smart Ways to Use Your Tax Refund)

1. Xbox One, FINALLY!

If you've been biding your time waiting for the latest gaming system from Microsoft, you can start shopping. The price of the Xbox One has dipped below $400 recently, and that means you can expect to see continuing discounts as retailers look to move their stock and start selling more Xbox One games. And with a discounted premier system comes further discounts on the Xbox 360. You may see prices as low as $100 for a bare bones system.

2. Easter Goodies

Easter Sunday this year is on April 20th. So for the first few weeks in April, you won't see any good deals on Easter candies and other goodies. But the last week of April will be a great time to stock up on hugely discounted eggs, themed treats, cards, wrapping, and other festive stuff. If you have the storage space, stock up on non-perishable items now, like baskets, plastic eggs, and filling material. It will save you big time next year. (See also: Easter Baskets for Grown Men)

3. Spring Fashions

As we mentioned in past posts, the stores are way ahead of us when it comes to seasonal fashions. That means big retailers are starting to discount their spring clothing and fashions in favor of summer stock. The beginning of April won't show you big discounts, but by the end you can expect deals of up to 40% off. And in May, you can see even bigger savings. Of course, the longer you wait, the less choice you'll have. (See also: Frugal Spring Wardrobe)

4. TVs, Electronics, and Gadgets

The end of the fiscal year for Japanese manufacturers is March 31st. That means new models will be coming out in April, and you can expect big discounts on last year's models. Expect to see big screen TVs drop even lower (is that even possible?), and you will also score great deals on stereos, TVs, DVD players, Blu-ray players and more.

5. Snow Blowers and Other Winter Equipment

There may still be snow in the forecast for some of us, but winter is almost done. And that means stores are clearing out their inventory to make way for spring and summer stock. Get bargains on snow shovels, ice melters, snow blowers, snowball makers, sleds, and anything else needed when Jack Frost comes visiting.

6. Office Furniture

What is hot one year is not the next, and vice versa. Last year, it was wise to hold off on office furniture. This year, there are going to be more deals around. Once people start spending their tax refunds, they'll start looking at business purchases like desks, chairs, and tables. If you need to revamp your home office, or business, do it this month.

7. Car Parts and Accessories

It's a little too cold for most of us to get under the hood and do some improvements. Summer is a time for car care, and that's why you'll see incentives to start moving some of those car parts now. (See also: Simple Ways to Keep Your Car Running Longer)

8. Jewelry

Mother's Day is Sunday, May 11th (unless you live in Britain, like my mum does — March 30th this year). The jewelers will be trying to part you from your hard earned cash with deals on sparkling necklaces, earrings, and brooches. If you wait too long, you'll be paying top dollar for the same items in May. Don't be one of those last minute shoppers; it will cost you.

And What to Avoid…

With the spring weather taunting you, you'll be tempted to spend big on the following items. Don't fall for the marketing. There are much better deals coming in a few months...

1. Laptops

Last year, laptop computers were in our April buy list. This year, avoid them. New processors and higher demand for more portable technology has not worked in the consumer's favor. Of course, everything is relative. The kind of laptop you can get today for $500 would have been three times that price just a few years ago. But it you're looking for deals, this is not your month.

2. Patio Furniture

Just like the grills, you'll see store displays featuring patio furniture, deck boxes, hose reels, and other outdoor gear. Again, wait a few months if you can. If you want to start enjoying the spring weather right now, you'll find good deals on Craigslist from people who are buying the new stuff right now and need to dump the old.

3. Vacuum Cleaners

April means that it's time for spring cleaning, and that means the tools needed to do those jobs are at full price, or very close to it. Wait a while, or pick up a decent used vacuum on Craigslist. June is officially the month for new models to come out, and so you'll start to see older model vacuums and rug shampooers going on sale at that time.

4. Mattresses

The next big holiday on the calendar is Memorial Day, and that's when mattress companies like to put their wares on sale. So, if your bed is giving up the ghost, throw a few blankets and towels on the bed until Memorial Day comes around. Your wallet will thank you. (See also: 5 Best Mattresses)

Are you planning to make any big or small purchases this month? What's on your list?

This article is from Paul Michael of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

What to Buy (and Avoid Buying) in March

Paul Michael — Mon, 03 Mar 2014 11:36:40 +0000

Right now, it may not feel like spring is approaching; many of us still have snow on our lawns and extra blankets on the bed. But, in a few months we'll be unpacking the shorts and light jackets, and getting ready to tune up the lawn mower. As always, stores are way ahead of consumers when it comes to stocking the shelves. They clear out products you want right now in favor of items you will soon need. But that makes for great bargains, if you know what to look for. (See also: Wise Bread's Shopping Calendar)

First, What to Buy…

There are plenty of awesome holidays this month. March 4th is Mardi Gras, also known as Fat Tuesday and Shrove Tuesday (or Pancake Day in the UK). In the UK, Mother's Day is Sunday, March 30th. And we also have the spring equinox on March 20th. Let's take a look at some of the bargains that accompany them.

1. Chocolates, Chocolates, Chocolates

Something the stores never want hanging around are seasonal items, especially edible ones. Valentine's Day may be long gone, but the stores still have plenty of goodies on the shelves. And they want to get rid of it quickly! You'll see 90% savings on perfectly good boxes of chocolates and other candies, and all because they're in heart-shipped boxes and flowery red packaging. It's silly, but it's good for your wallet. (See also: 15 Reasons to Eat More Chocolate)

2. Frozen Foods

March is National Frozen Foods month. Who knew? That means you'll see a ton of great coupons in the circulars and discounts in stores. If you have space in your freezer, now is the time to use it up. Or grab yourself a cheap freezer off Craigslist and stock it up! Remember, these foods can last a year or more, but the deals don't ever last that long. (See also: Make-Ahead, Freezable Hot Breakfasts)

3. Intel-Based Laptops

If you need a new laptop for school, college, the workplace, or just to have around the house, now is the time to check out deals on Intel-based laptops. Now, there are several types of Intel processors, from the older Ivy Bridge and Celeron models, to the newer Haswell versions. Strangely enough, the better deals seem to be on the Haswells, so if you have $500 to spend, you can get a fast and reliable Dell, HP, Lenovo, Acer, or Sony laptop with a Haswell Core i5 or Core i7 processor.

4. Big Screen TVs

It won't be too long before 42" LCD TVs are given away free with boxes of cereal. Seriously, every year big screen TVs get cheaper and cheaper. A few years ago, a 60" 1080p LCD TV would have set you back a few thousand dollars. This year, you will get change out of $800. And those 4K TVs are also going to drop in price, too. If you have plans for a home theater, this is a great month to buy, especially if you're expecting a tax refund.

5. Luggage

Now's the time to stock up on travel gear. If past performance is any indication of how things will go this year, luggage and baggage deals kick into high gear in March. New luggage models (do people really care about the trendiness of their suitcases?) come out now, so old models are priced to move. From retail stores like Sears and Walmart to online retailers like eBags and Amazon, you should find yourself some sweet bargains. Hopefully, flights will be just as good to you. (See also: Packing Secrets From a Pro Traveler)

6. Snow Gear

If you like fresh powder, there's still time to enjoy it while wearing some snazzy new gear…and it doesn't have to cost full price. Just like last month, there are deals to be had on those big winter jackets, snow boots, hats, and all sorts of other stuff designed to keep the icy weather at bay. These deals won't last too much longer, so grab them now.

7. St. Patrick's Day Merchandise

Once again, the green beers will be flowing on March 17th — St. Patrick's Day. And as soon as the sun sets on the 17th, the stores start discounting St. Paddy's Day merchandise with a determination that would make the Little Engine That Could jealous. In the past, Target has quickly and massively discounted the green gear. Remember, until the 17th you won't see many deals, but after then you can scoop up the bargains and stock up for next year. (See also: Ways to Serve Potatoes on St. Patrick's Day)

8. Amazon Prime

If you've been debating an Amazon Prime membership, now could be the best time to jump on it. Over the past year, changes have been made to Amazon Prime that have made it less of a deal than it used to be. For instance, the change to "add on items," which were once free to ship with Prime, but are now only shipped free if included with an order that brings your total over $25. Rumors have it that Amazon is going to hike the rates by 50% or more. Get in now, and enjoy free two-day shipping and a massive library of free TV and Movies to stream whenever you want.

9. Seeds and Plants

Of course, with frost and hard ground to contend with, you won't be planting a whole lot right now. But you can order what you need now and save 50% or more on seeds that will make your garden grow. (See also: Guide to Container Gardening)

10. Silverware and China

Wedding season is not until June. Christmas is over. The stores want to get some of their silverware and china stock cleared. If your plates, bowls and cutlery are looking a little past their prime, now is a great time to refresh them all. And remember, the old ones can be donated to charity for a family that really needs them.

What to Avoid…

There's a lot of flimflam in March too. It starts at the beginning of the month with Oscar Night 2014, and let's not forget Daylight Savings Time on March 9th — one hour of sleep lost, one extra pot of coffee on Sunday. Let's see what we should be looking to avoid this month.

1. Sexy Lingerie

It's not the same as candy; lingerie is lingerie, and it is still popular despite Valentine's Day being over for another year. When it comes to sales, most lingerie stores follow the lead of the biggest and most infamous — Victoria's Secret. And as their semi-annual sale is in June, you should hold off on your shopping until then.

2. Xbox One Systems and Games

The Xbox One is still a hot item, but the discounts are coming in April. Now that the rush is over for Christmas, and the big fans have already picked up their systems, sales are on the decline. Microsoft doesn't want to see the PS4 gaining any more market share, and the best way to combat that is with discounts. Keep your eyes peeled, but don't buy anything just yet.

3. Spring Apparel

Spring is not just around the corner. But the stores have a different story. They're stocking up for spring right now, and they have no plans to offer any kind of discounts just yet. Spring gear is still priced at or close to the recommended retail price. Wait a month or two, and those prices will come down just in time for you to get a month or two of good use out of everything you buy.

4. New Smartphones

The latest models are everywhere, and they're full price. By all means use this time to start looking around for models you'd like to have, but hold your horses. Give it a few months and those full price phones will start falling in price.

5. Gym Memberships

If you're a regular at the gym, you should have seen the New Year's rush die down by now. But, it's far from over yet. People are still trying to fulfill that resolution to get fit, and gyms are not struggling to make their numbers. Wait a few more months. Once the sun is shining and people can run outdoors, they'll start hitting you with offers.

Are you planning to make any purchases in March? Where are you finding deals?

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This article is from Paul Michael of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

What to Buy, and Avoid Buying, in February

Paul Michael — Tue, 04 Feb 2014 11:24:08 +0000

It's February, and in many parts of the country the weather is miserable. There's snow, ice, sleet, slick roads, and backed-up traffic for miles. It's not exactly ideal conditions to hunt for bargains. But if you know you need one of the items on the list below, you could get a real steal if you weather the storm. (See also: 50+ Life Hacks to Win at Winter)

What to Buy

February is the shortest month of the year. It also brings some memorable events, including Groundhog Day, Valentine's Day, Black History Month, President's Day, and the long awaited Winter Olympics, which open on the 7th. Let's take a look at the deals you can get.

1. Tax Prep Software

Ugh. Does anyone out there actually enjoy doing their taxes? Ninety-nine percent of people would say no, and the other 1% are accountants raking in the prep fees. Still, as it's such a painful process, most people put it off for as long as possible, so the tax software deals are out there now to entice you. Tax software is cheaper now and more expensive the closer we get to the April deadline. Buy it now.

2. Chocolate, Flowers, and Other Valentine's Day Leftovers

The beginning of this month is NOT a good time to buy these items. But once Valentine's Day is over, they'll be everywhere. Delicious chocolates in a heart-shaped box are still delicious chocolates, but they're 50%–75% cheaper once the day has gone. The same goes for flowers, cards, jewelry, and other love-related gifts. Stock up and save. Who cares if your candy is themed?! (See also: Wise Bread's Guide to Valentine's Day)

3. Mattresses and Furniture

With President's Day comes cheap mattresses; the bed companies love to put deals out this month. So do furniture manufactures and warehouse stores. So if you're in the market for a new bed or a remodel, this is the month to buy the big items.

4. Weddings

As we said in the opening paragraph, many parts of the country are bitterly cold. It's not the best time to have a wedding. No one wants to see pictures of the bride and groom shivering outside the church. June is the peak time, but that means if you want some big savings on one of the most costly events in your life, this is the month to get it done. You'll see massive savings, if you can handle the weather. (See also: How to Plan a Last-Minute Wedding)

5. Electronics and Big Screen TVs

Last month, the 2014 CES show premiered all the latest and greatest gadgets, electronics, TVs, and media players. The current stock in stores like Best Buy suddenly doesn't look so cool. Who wants to buy a product that is about to be old news? Retailers are in a mad rush to dump the old stock to make room for the shiny new gadgets. Go get your electronics and big screen TVs at a nice fat discount. (See also: The Best 3D TVs)

6. Bicycles and Motorcycles

In the winter months, bike riding of either kind is nowhere near as fun. And that equates to low sales for the bike stores. Take advantage of their discounts and get yourself a new bike for the spring and summer months at a price people will be kicking themselves over later on. (See also: 10 Best Cycling Apps for $5 or Less)

7. Humidifiers and Air Conditioners

Again, the seasonality makes this one common sense. We don't have our A/C units on, not when an open window will do the job just as well. And so you'll find bargains galore on humidifiers and A/C units.

8. Winter Apparel

Stores are going to make room for their spring collections. And this month, they're starting to get a little more urgent about clearing the shelves to make way for the new goods. Expect discounts of 75% or even more. Sure, you won't get much use out of it, but as sure as night follows day, winter will be back again.

9. Fragrances

Valentine's Day is popular for fragrances. Stores stock up on them, as they're popular gift items. But then they want to clear the shelves for important stuff…like Easter eggs, Easter baskets, and Easter everything else! So, if you're in the market for a new perfume or cologne, the end of February will be kind to you.

10. The Wii U and Other Video Games

Nintendo was expecting the Wii U to go gangbusters. It was more a case of it being a big bust. Now, to try and drag their sales figures out of the basement, Nintendo is going to be slashing the prices. They also have to compete with the Xbox One and PS4. And that will not be easy. Also, the release date for the big games is the end of the year. By the end of February, those hot news games have gone lukewarm. It's the perfect time to pick up the new releases for a song.

What to Avoid

We mentioned the more famous holidays of February. Did you know this month is also home to Walking the Dog Day, Ferris Wheel Day, Plum Pudding Day, and even Get a Different Name Day? As these crazy holidays come and go, remember not to fall for the crazy prices on the items below. They're not so good.

1. Smart Phones and the iPhone

The CES show is over, but it's not the place for smartphone announcements. There is another show called the Mobile World Congress still to come in late February, and that's when the latest phones and handheld tech advances are showcased. Also, iPhone 6 is expected to be released later this year, so wait a while, and you'll get an iPhone 5S at a lower price.

2. Eyeglasses

Once again, February is the most expensive time of the year to buy eyeglasses. We asked last year, and we'll ask again this year…optometrists of the world, why is it so expensive to buy spectacles this month?

3. Suitcases

With the winter killing morale, people are planning vacations and want to buy their new luggage now. When demand is high, prices are too. Unless your old suitcases are falling apart, wait a few months to replace them. Or find some good used ones on Craigslist. (See also: Best Things to Buy on Craigslist)

4. Refrigerators

The new models roll out in the spring, and that's when the discounts will appear on last year's models. It's just a few months, so do a little window-shopping and wait for the prices to fall. Again, if your fridge is dead, scour Craigslist.

Are you planning to make any largish purchases this month? Are you getting it at a discount?

This article is from Paul Michael of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

What to Buy, and Avoid Buying, in January

Paul Michael — Wed, 01 Jan 2014 11:25:07 +0000

Happy New Year everyone! It's 2014, and another year of great bargains and money-saving tips is upon us. As we wind down from the festivities, it's important to know what deals are out there, and what "bargains" are actually just red herrings. Let's break it down for you. (See also: 20 Cheap Ways to Make January Special)

What to Buy in January

Did you know that January is a month filled with some bizarre holidays? For example, there's "Ditch New Years Resolutions Day" on January 17th, and "Backward Day" on January 31st (let's hope some retailers celebrate that one and put a few of the prices backwards for us!). There are also some unexpected sales to take advantage of this month, as well as the more obvious ones.

1. Fitness Equipment

After the holiday feasts and overindulgence, people want to get fit. Retailers will compete with each other to give you better deals on fitness equipment, with some people preferring to work out at home than join a gym. Expect to see savings of at least 30% on treadmills, bikes, home gyms, elliptical trainers, and even rowing machines. Better yet, wait a few more months and you'll see these almost new pieces of equipment being sold dirt-cheap on Craigslist! (See also: How to Stick to an Exercise Plan)

2. National Park Visits

Along with the odd holidays mentioned above, January 20th is Martin Luther King Day. To celebrate this, almost 400 national parks will be waiving their entrance fees for the day. While some are already free, others will give you free entrance worth as much as $12. It's a great time to check out the Grand Canyon or Yellowstone. Take note though, the parks will be very crowded on this day, obviously.

3. Christmas Stuff

Trees. Wreaths. Baubles. Tinsel. Cards. Wrapping. Right about now the prices have been slashed on all of the holiday gear, with retailers like Walmart and Target discounting it by as much as 90%! Smart shoppers will take advantage of this now, storing it away for Christmas 2014. Now is the time to stock up on supplies for next year and bag a great tree or wreath for pennies on the dollar.

4. Furniture and Mattresses

Out with the old, in with the new…and the sales! New models of chairs, tables, sofas, and all sorts of other stuff are ready to be rolled out in February. Retailers don't want old stock hanging around, so you can pick it up for huge discounts. In particular, look for incredible savings on mattress sets, with deals of 50%–75% off.

5. Linens and Bedding

A little history for you. John Wanamaker first introduced the White Sale in the late 1800s. Since then, linens, towels, and bedding have gone on sale every January. So, if you're ready to spruce up the new bed (see above) with new sheets, or deck out the bathroom in new towels, now is the time to go shopping.

6. Tax Software

2014 brings another year of taxes. The IRS is starting to prepare for the April deadline, and discounted tax preparation software is hitting the shelves. Most of the software sold will have the ability to be updated online to reflect new laws. So get your discounts now, before the March rush kicks in.

7. Electronics

The Consumer Electronics Show (CES) is in January. New models are being featured, and 2013/2012 models will be heavily discounted soon. All those laptops (especially touchscreen models), tablets, Blu-Ray players, digital cameras, and computer monitors that dazzled Christmas shoppers are now sitting around, being old and out of date. They need to be replaced, and that means you get a bargain. However, wait for big TVs.

8. Valentine's Gifts

Just as you're cleaning up the holiday wrapping, another big gifting day is coming into view. You'll see the greeting card aisles stocked with Valentine's Day cards. But it's about six weeks away, so the urgency isn't quite there yet. Don't wait and be one of the desperate people skimming through the poor selection of cards and gifts. NOW is a great time to find deals on jewelry, chocolates (look for long expiration dates), perfumes, and other romantic gifts. (See also: Frugal and Simple Valentine's Day Ideas)

9. Winter Coats

This one still baffles people. Right now, there is snow on my lawn. In many parts of the country, it's polar bear weather. But stores are always one season ahead, and spring is just around the corner. So grab a winter coat now, and you'll get a deal on something you can get several months' use out of before it goes into storage for the summer.

10. Homes

Speaking of nasty weather, would you want to go around looking at homes right now? Would you want to move in freezing weather? Exactly. No one is thinking about buying a house right now. And that's why it's a great time to grab a deal. Don't wait until spring when you'll be fighting the crowds. Do it now, and have some negotiating power.

What to Avoid in January

So, although January is great for deals, there are still a few pitfalls to avoid. Here are the top six offenders. Don't get these unless it's unavoidable (and remember, used gear from Craigslist is always a great alternative).

1. The Latest Gaming Consoles

Make no mistake, the Xbox One and PS4 are both still hot items. In fact, many people had trouble finding them for Christmas, and are still trying to grab a model. If you're really lucky, you may find a store doing a good bundle or a 10%–15% discount, but honestly, this is not a good time to buy either. However, if you don't mind an older version, the Xbox 360 and PS3 are cheap enough.

2. Gym Memberships

January is pure gold for gym owners. On January 1st at 12:01 a.m., people all over America, and the world, make New Year's resolutions to get fit and join a gym. This is the year! They're going to get fit. Some will do it, others won't, but almost all of them will run out and buy a gym membership. This glut of new members means the gym owners don't have to offer any kind of incentive. It also means that you'll have to deal with crammed locker rooms, no parking spaces, and queues forming for some pieces of equipment. Wait for the rush to die down, by April you'll see better deals. (See also: Legit Ways to Use the Gym for Free)

3. Big Screen HDTVs

Although the 2014 models will be debuting at CES, they won't be hitting the stores immediately. It will take a while for the retailers to start clearing out their HDTV stock, so wait until the very end of January and the beginning of February to start shopping for your new 60" monster!

4. Winter Sports Gear

Winter coats are on sale, so why not winter sports gear? Well, you may get a slight discount, but unlike winter coats, the winter gear is in very high demand. Stores don't like to discount anything that's in high demand. Wait until April or May, and you'll see prices slashed across the board.

5. Luggage

As families make plans to escape the nasty weather, they also look at replacing their old, beaten-up luggage. People are also preparing for the spring break trips, too. Either way, that spells full-price offers from retailers. Wait until the summer — you'll get genuine bargains then.

6. Patio Furniture and Grills

Retailers dumped their stock of patio furniture at the end of summer. That was the time to buy. Right now, they're starting to get in this year's brand new merchandise and will charge top dollar for it. If you want deals on grills and patio furniture, your best bet is used, on Craigslist.

What are you looking to save money on in January? Where are you finding the deals?

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This article is from Paul Michael of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread: