Submitted by Stephen of Metal Man on July 29, 2008

Metal Man offers 5 easy ways to save money

It is no secret that our country is in a tough financial position now. Fuel and food costs are up while housing values and the stock market (and therefore 401k plans and other investments) are down. Most folks have been forced to cut back on discretionary spending and are wondering how to stretch the money they have. So let’s look at five ideas that anyone can use to get more for their money.

• Compare Prices – It seems like there is always something else to buy, be it orange juice, printer paper or diapers. Yet though these things are necessary, prices for each vary widely between stores. Compare prices, browse circulars, look for sales; you will soon know where to go for your various needs. Additionally, online shopping allows the consumer to compare prices from a multitude of sellers quickly and without leaving home. Amazon and Ebay are household names for a reason!

• Stock Up on Sale – Food is more expensive now than ever, but free market competition results in tremendous sale discounts. Take advantage by stocking up on sale items, especially non-perishables and frozen (or “freezable”) foods. You probably will need a chest freezer, but this method will enable you to save 30-50% or more on meats, can foods, box foods, etc.

• Barbecue – Who doesn’t like a good barbecue? Well, since cooking produces heat and makes a cool house uncomfortable, you have one more reason to barbecue frequently. Gas grills have evolved in the last few years and are available with side burners for pots of beans or corn or whatever. Since you spend so much to keep your house cool, give your Air Conditioning unit a rest. Take the cooking outside when possible.

• Garage Sales and Yard Sales – Another familiar summer activity is the old-fashioned American garage sale. Some garage sales and yard sales are really just tables full of junk with price tags. But many of your neighbors are selling quality items that you need (or maybe just bought at full price) for a fraction of the retail cost. For example, unused baby clothes with tags still attached are not uncommon. Some people have reservations about garage sales, but this is unnecessary. Just think of it as an open-air market. Plus you get to meet new people around you and just might enjoy it.

• Rediscover the Greater Indianapolis Area – Are you reconsidering some of those summer travel plans? Don’t overlook the option of staying close to home. Indianapolis is a great city and offers numerous recreational opportunities. Have fun for free at the assorted parks, monuments, waterways and public events. Or for a few dollars you can enjoy movies, restaurants, museums, sporting events, mini-golf and other great activities close to home. Spend less time in the car, save money on gas and hotels, and remember what makes Indy so special.

Although saving money is good, most people would like to find some extra money too. The author informs you that, due to the current economic climate, gold and silver values are at all-time highs. This means that your old jewelry, sterling silverware and coins are worth more now than ever before. Furthermore, there are many gold and silver buyers but only one “Metal Man”, “Indy’s Better Gold & Silver Buyer”. Metal Man is a member of the Fishers Chamber of Commerce. If you are interested in this service, call 317-454-9700 or visit www.IndyMetalMan.com for more information, including testimonials.