The following is a guest post from my frugal friend, Guest Blogger Susan.
While I cut coupons, shop sales, make do or make without, and generally live within my means, there are a few things I am happy to pay full price for.
Repairs I can’t do myself. I can hold my own when it comes to the business end of a screwdriver but there are things I simply don’t know how to fix. For example I have no idea how to repair my car’s exhaust and suspension system, any electrical part of my house, and jewelry. When it comes to these items, I want someone who knows what they are doing to make the repair. I have also discovered that it works out best if you have a fair and honest repairperson lined up before you need them.
Glasses and contacts. These are medical devices that need to be checked and updated each year for contacts and every two for glasses. I wouldn’t trust getting my gall bladder out just because it is “the cheapest place in 5 counties” would you? The same goes for your eyes. Find a doctor you like and you feel does a through job of checking you over.
Teeth. If you can’t afford going to the dentist every 6 months, go at least once a year. And if you need fillings or repair have it done. Most dentists will work with you on a payment plan. After the age of 10, the teeth you have are the teeth you get. A little prevention will keep you smilin’ for years. No, no one likes going to the dentist but it’s so much better than missing teeth or painful mouth problems.
Tools. I bought a $4 shovel because I didn’t have that much digging to do. It broke on the second spade full of dirt. On Easter Sunday. I learned my lesson. I now buy tools I can count on to work when I need them.
Tipping the waitress. If he or she has done their job you need to tip them at least 15% if not 20%. They make less than 3 bucks an hour in my state; the rest of their income is from the money you leave on the table.
Safety Items. My sister-in law rolled her car over this past weekend. Everyone was fine but the car was totaled and the 2 car seats had to be replaced. While I am sure the car seats being sold on Craig’s List or at yard sales are fine, I wouldn’t feel safe strapping kids in to a seat I didn’t know for sure where it had been. If you are going to use a used one I would go with getting it from someone you know.
How about you? What are you willing to pay full price for?
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