There are certain items that are always worth buying brand new. Stuff that immediately leaps to mind includes mattresses, running shoes, and child car seats. But what are the used items in life that provide the best value? In other words, what stuff should always be on your radar at yard sales, Craigslist, thrift stores, and other non-traditional stores.

Daily Finance recently did a great job breaking down the four items that you should never buy new. Here is what you need to know:

• Hand Tools: Used hand tools always provide an excellent value. The last time I checked, my 10 year old hammer works just as well as the new one smaller one I picked up last month. When it comes to power tools, on the other hand, unless you know how they were treated, you’re taking a bit of risk. But with good ol’ fashioned hand tools, always buy used. Many yard sales offer a treasure trove of tool bargains to pick from.
• Wood Furniture: Another thing you should never buy new is furniture, wood furniture in particular. While IKEA offers a great bargain, quality used wood furniture will likely stand the test of time and not just a semester at college.
• Sporting Goods: Thinking of trying a new sport or looking to start pumping some iron at home to build strength? Don’t spend money on expensive new gear and equipment until you know it’s right for you. Shop for used sporting goods at stores like Play It Again Sports as well as thrift stores and garage sales. A word of caution on used exercise equipment like treadmills and elliptical machines, if it has an electric motor, you’re always taking a risk when buying secondhand.
• Books: Brick & mortar bookstores are slowly becoming relics, and so is the idea of paying full cover price for a new book. Always buy books at a used book store, garage sale, thrift store, or a killer online book store like ThriftBooks.com. They have over 7 million used books to pick from and offer free shipping on $10 or more. BTW, it’s easily my wife’s favorite website.

Ask the Reader: What stuff do you never buy new that helps you save money?

Things You Should Never Buy New | Daily Finance

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