Where can you buy items in good condition but for little money? We have found 4 ways to do just that.

1. Online Auctions
There are literally thousands of web sites that offer auction type bidding for products. Ebay.ca is one that we use on a frequent basis especially for buying books that interest us. When we get flyers in the mail offering new books, usually at a cost of $40 or more, we search for the book on ebay, and sometimes find we are able to bid and win it for it at half the cost. We have been lucky in that the books we have received are in great condition. The only problem with ebay is that the shipping costs can be high if the item is heavy.

2. Estate Auctions
The other type of auction that we use is an actual auction - mostly estate sales. You can obtain items at a very reasonable price often far less than the market value. We have found treasures, items that you can no longer buy in a store at these auctions. Check your local newspaper as auctions are usually advertised in the classified ads. If you are ever in New Brunswick, Liptays Auctions are great to attend also a fun time for visitors or guests.

3. Second Hand Stores
Second hand store merchandise sometimes is junk, there are other times where we have found some great bargains. The secret with second hand stores is that you have to check back on a regular basis. They have new merchandise often coming in daily, or weekly. Sometimes you go and there is nothing, and other times you find lots of items. Look in the yellow pages of your phone book for a listing of "Second Hand" stores in your area.

4. Yard Sales/Flea Markets
Of course, local yard sales and flea markets offer great bargains! You may have to look around to find what you want, but most times it is worth the time to do so!

So the next time you need an item, check one of the four resources above, it just might surprise you what you will find!!

About the Author:
Catherine Pulsifer is one of the authors of A Simple Life - A journey to a simple life, and, a frugal lifestyle. http://www.stresslesscountry.com