If you’re in the mood for a home décor refresh, check out this list of five items that are up for grabs on Amazon – from a candle warmer to a cozy blanket and more.(iStock)
Transforming your home into a cozy haven can be the perfect way to get through the rest of the winter doldrums and hibernate in style.
Consider bringing warmth to your front door by shopping for the Amazon picks below.
Whether it’s fresh throw pillows, chunky knit blankets or scented candles, you can give your home a cozy upgrade for just a few dollars.
SOUP LOVER’S DELIGHT: 5 GADGETS ON AMAZON FOR MAKING AND SERVING SOUP
Here are five items that will bring you cozier days ahead.
You can find them all on Amazon, and they can be delivered to your door in 24 hours if you’re an Amazon Prime member.
You can join or start a 30-day free trial to shop.
Transform any candle into a flameless one with this chic candle warmer.(Amazon.com)
Unlike traditional flame-burning candles, the candle warmer lamp offers smokeless operation, creating a cozy and relaxing atmosphere in your home without any potentially dangerous flames.
15 LAST-MINUTE VALENTINE’S DAY GIFTS YOUR SIGNIFICANT OTHER WILL LOVE
The lamp gently and safely warms the candle wax within minutes, releasing its fragrance.
This vintage space heater is functional, stylish — and could come in handy if you’re looking for extra warmth.(Amazon.com)
Who says space heaters have to be boring?
This Vornado 1945 space heater looks chic in a small to medium-sized bedroom or office to warm up the space in style with two heat settings.
It’s functional as well as stylish.
A heated blanket could be just what the doctor ordered on a chilly, snowy day.(Amazon.com)
A couch throw is essential when curling up by the fire on a cold winter’s night.
But a heated one ups the ante.
ALREADY THINKING ABOUT SPRING? THESE 10 GARDEN ITEMS CAN HELP YOU PREPARE
This cloud-like soft velour blanket has five heating settings that ensure even heating throughout the entire blanket.
“Ridiculously soft,” said one five-star reviewer. “Great price for the quality!’
Consider these comfy throw pillows. This pick by Deeland is made with soft faux fur.(Amazon.com)
If you’re looking for a quick and cheap way to switch up the look and feel of your home, try throw pillows.
This plush set is made of super soft faux fur to warm up any living space.
“Love, love, love!” said one Amazon customer.
“The quality is excellent, feels so soft and beautiful. It elevated the look to luxurious and classy. I recommend this product.”
Blanket ladder(Amazon.com)
If you love throw blankets but find they’re constantly crumpled on the couch or the floor, this blanket ladder could solve the problem.
Your comfy blankets stay neatly folded when not in use — and the sleek, modern design and beautiful finish will complement any home decor style.
For more Deals, visit www.foxnews.com/category/deals.
Jené Luciani Sena is a contributing lifestyle reporter for Fox News Digital.
Do you have books gathering dust in your basement or on your shelf? If so, you can make some extra cash by learning how to sell used books. The amount of money you can make selling used books varies. Typically, college textbooks pay the most and you may be able to make around $100 per…
Do you have books gathering dust in your basement or on your shelf? If so, you can make some extra cash by learning how to sell used books.
The amount of money you can make selling used books varies. Typically, college textbooks pay the most and you may be able to make around $100 per textbook sold.
You can sell many other types of books as well, such as chapter books, children’s books, romance novels, and more.
An easy way to find out how much your used books are worth is by using Book Scouter. With Book Scouter, all you need to do is enter the ISBN and they will tell you how much you can possibly get for the used book.
We have sold books plenty of times over the years, as well as have bought used books. It’s a great way to make extra money!
17 Best Places To Sell Used Books
Below are the best places and sites to sell used books.
1. Decluttr
Decluttr is a platform that lets you sell items like books, clothes, electronics, and more.
To get started selling books on Decluttr, you need to create an account on the website. Next, click the ” Start Selling” button and enter the ISBN or barcode of the book you want to sell. Once you do this, Decluttr will give an instant valuation based on the condition and demand of the book.
Once an offer is accepted, you’ll receive a confirmation email with a prepaid shipping label. Print the label and put it on a box and pack your books in the box. When Decluttr receives your items, you’ll receive payment either through direct deposit or PayPal.
2. AbeBooks
AbeBooks is a popular online platform for selling new and used books, along with art and collectibles. You can sell rare books (such as a first edition book), textbooks, maps, comics, and paper collectibles on AbeBooks.
To get started selling on AbeBooks, create an account under “Start Selling”. Once your account is set up, you can start listing books. You will need the ISBN, condition, title, author, and price of the book you’re selling.
When a buyer purchases one of your books, AbeBooks notifies you. Then, you’ll pack the book securely and ship it straight to the buyer.
3. Amazon
Amazon is a popular site to sell used books online.
To get started selling books on Amazon, create an Amazon Seller account. Click “Sign Up” and fill out the information needed like payment and bank account details for receiving payment. Now you can list your books by finding the “Inventory” tab and selecting “Add A Product”. Enter the ISBN code to find your book and provide details about the book’s condition, price, and shipping options.
Once a book is sold, Amazon notifies you and you can begin the shipping process.
Recommended reading: 16 Best Ways To Get Paid To Read Books
4. Barnes and Noble
Barnes and Noble has a Textbook Buyback program where they buy certain textbooks for a fair price. This is a great program if you have textbooks you’re no longer using and want to make some money.
To get started with the Barnes and Noble Textbook Buyback program, locate the ISBN number on the back of your textbook and enter the number. You must have $10 worth of books to sell in order to participate in the book buyback program. Once you’ve entered your ISBN number, you will receive a quote from Barnes and Noble, and from there you can accept the quote and submit the book return.
5. Craigslist
Selling used books on Craigslist is an easy and quick method to get rid of books. First, you’ll need to create a Craigslist account and choose your location. Create a new listing and select the books category. Fill out details for the book including clear pictures of the book, condition of the book, and other relevant information (hardcover, paperback, ripped pages, etc.)
With Craigslist, it’s important to coordinate a safe place for the exchange and some sellers choose places like libraries, police station parking lots, or coffee shops.
6. eBay
eBay is a great place to sell used books due to its wide customer base and trust in the marketplace. You have the flexibility to set your own pricing on eBay and creating listings on the site is incredibly easy. If you have rare books, you can even set up an auction for bids, which can sometimes result in higher prices.
To sell books on eBay, you must have an eBay account. You can start listing your books under “Sell” link at the top of eBay’s website. You pay a final value fee whenever your item sells.
7. Valore
Valore is a platform specifically for selling and purchasing textbooks. The Valore platform is user-friendly and easy to use. All you need to do is enter the ISBN of the textbook and you’ll receive an instant quote, and Valore covers shipping the textbook to their warehouse and pays out via check or PayPal.
Keep in mind, that selling textbooks to platforms like Valore may end up making you more money than selling your textbooks to a local college bookstore. Campus bookstores are notorious for paying low prices for textbooks and campus stores are limited to how many textbooks they can purchase.
8. Sellbackyourbook.com
Sellbackyourbook.com is a website where you can sell used books online for cash. This site specializes in purchasing textbooks.
To sell your textbooks, all you have to do is enter your book’s ISBNs to receive instant price quotes for your books. You also need to provide shipping information and print a shipping label from the website. You do not have to pay for shipping.
You’re responsible for packing and shipping the books to the designated address. Once the textbooks are received and the condition is verified, you’ll receive payment either by check or PayPal.
9. Half Price Books
Half Price Books is an in-person store where you can sell your books in person for cash or store credit. The staff at Half Price Books assesses the condition of the books you’re selling and the demand for the book, and gives you a price based on those factors.
Besides books, Half Price Books also buys music, movies, collectibles, comics, magazines, games, and electronics. When selling items at Half Price Books, you need to have a government-issued ID with you and be at least 18 years of age. If you’re under 18 years old, a parent/guardian must be with you.
10. Powell’s Books
Powell’s Books is a bookstore located in Portland, Oregon. The store has an online and in-person program for buying used books. The online buyback program does payouts through PayPal. If you sell books in person, payouts are in the form of Powell store credit.
To sell books to Powell’s Books online, all you need to do is scan or enter the ISBN of the books you want to sell. You’ll receive an instant quote. If you’re happy with the quote, package the books and drop them off at a local UPS store.
11. Chegg
Chegg is another online textbook store that has a textbook buyback program. Chegg works with an independent buyer called GoTextbooks which purchases textbooks.
To get started, enter the ISBN of the textbook and find out what you’ll get paid for your book. Next, you’ll print a free shipping label and ship your book to their warehouse. As soon as your book is received, you’ll receive payment. Textbooks need to be in fair condition or better.
12. BooksRun
BooksRun is a website that buys books. To get started, enter the ISBN number on the back of the book and you’ll receive a quote. Books ship for free with a QR code, so you don’t even need to print out a shipping label yourself. Once the book is received, you’ll receive a check or PayPal within 4 days.
There’s also a BooksRun app that makes it even easier to sell your books.
13. Bookscouter
BookScouter is an online book buying program where 30+ vendors compete to buy your books and this is one of the best apps to sell used books. You can compare offers with a single search, making it incredibly easy to find the best place to sell your books. BookScouter shows you the highest buyback price and will even track price changes and send you price alerts.
There’s even a BookScouter app, making it as easy as possible to sell your books online. Books must be in new or in almost new condition and cannot have missing pages, broken spines, excessive writing or highlighting, or water damage.
14. Cash4Books
Cash4Books is a platform that buys books for cash. To get started, take a picture of your collection of books and then you’ll receive a quote.
Cash4Books is known for buying 500+ books at a time at estate sales and similar places. They specialize in buying personal academic collections and are interested in non-fiction and academic titles of all kinds.
This platform is not interested in buying 1 or 2 books at a time, but instead wants to buy hundreds of books at once.
15. Your college bookstore (for textbooks)
If you want to sell your college textbooks as soon as possible, visit your local campus textbook store. Gather all of the textbooks you want to sell and make sure they are in good condition with minimal highlighting. Most college bookstores require a student ID to buy back your textbooks, so make sure to bring it with you.
Make sure to clean your books and wipe off any dust or debris. Visit the bookstore during open hours and the staff will evaluate the condition of the book and check if the book is needed for upcoming courses. If the book is needed, the staff will make you an offer based on the condition of the book and the current demand.
We have sold plenty of college textbooks over the years, and it is very easy to do!
Tip: If you’re in college, buying used college textbooks is also a great way to save money while you’re in college! Both me and my sister did this and it saved us hundreds of dollars each semester on books for our classes.
16. Local book store that accepts used books
It’s also a great idea to check local bookstores to see if they buy used books. Depending on the desirability and condition of the book, your local bookstore may want to buy it from you.
Call or email local bookstores to see if they have a buyback program for used books. You can also ask them what kind of books they’re interested in buying or take all of the books you’re wanting to sell straight to the bookstore. The bookstore staff will give you a quote and either pay you in cash or store credit.
I love local bookstores for this reason – I can find great used books for a fraction of the cost. Plus, you can find limited edition and more rare books at local book stores too.
17. Garage sales and yard sales
One of the easiest places to sell used books is at a garage sale or yard sale. It’s important to know you’re probably going to get the least amount possible for your books since you’ll have a much smaller customer base.
Most books at garage sales go for less than $1 and oftentimes go for 25 cents each. But, there are no shipping costs or monthly fees and all you have to do is put them outside, so that is very easy!
Make sure to advertise your garage sale online in Facebook groups and by posting flyers around town and letting people know that you are selling books for a deeply discounted price.
Also, if you want to just declutter your books and home, and you don’t care about making money, then another option is to simply donate your used books to a place like Goodwill.
Frequently Asked Questions About The Best Places To Sell Used Books
Below are answers to common questions about the best places to sell used books.
Where can I sell used books for the best price?
The best places to sell used books include Amazon, eBay, BookScouter, and Decluttr. Getting the best price for books depends on things like the condition of the books (are there stains?), market trends, and demand for the book.
How much money can you make selling books?
The amount of money you can make selling used books depends on a few factors, including:
Genre of the books
Target audience
Marketing strategy
Demand for the book
The most popular genres include mystery, romance, and science fiction. These books often have a larger read base which makes selling used books in this genre much easier.
How can you increase your earnings on used books?
There are many ways to increase your profit when selling used books, including:
Clean the book and get rid of dust before selling
Be transparent about the condition of the book
Include free shipping for your used books
Package books with care
How can I find out how much my books are worth?
One way to find out how much your used books are worth is by using Book Scouter. All you need to do is enter the book ISBN number and they will tell you how much you can possibly get for the used book.
What kind of books can you sell?
The types of books that sell best include textbooks, comic books, hardcovers, popular fiction, and more. You can sell any type of book!
Is Amazon a good place to sell books? Can you still make money selling used books on Amazon?
Amazon is a good place to sell books online because of its large customer base and global reach. You will have competition on Amazon, but with the platform’s wide reach, you’ll have a chance to attract multiple buyers looking for your books.
You can fulfill orders yourself or use Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA) which is where Amazon handles the storage, packing, and shipping of your books. This can save you a lot of time. Also, you get access to Prime members which means your books may qualify for Amazon Prime shipping, which makes your books more appealing to customers who have Prime.
Does Barnes and Noble buy used books?
Barnes and Noble is primarily focused on buying textbooks and you must have $10 worth of books to sell in order to participate in their buyback program.
Best Places To Sell Used Books – Final Thoughts
I hope you enjoyed this article on the best ways to sell used books.
There are many places to sell books ranging from online platforms like Delcuttr or Amazon or selling in person at bookstores like Half Price Books or Powell’s Books.
To get the most money for selling your books, enter the ISBN code on several different websites to find who will give you the best quote.
If you have a stack of books collecting dust, you might as well make some extra money with them!
Have you sold used books in the past? Where’s your favorite place to sell your old books?
Amazon sometimes offer Prime members a ‘no rush shipping’ offer – an incentive to allow for slower shipping speeds. We’ve typically always seen a $1 digital credit as the reward. Lately I’ve been noticing getting a consistent offer to receive 6% back on the Amazon Prime credit card as my no-rush shipping reward. That’s an extra 1% back, and could amount to a decent cash reward on larger purchases.
As an Amazon Prime 5% card cardholder, I mentally think of Amazon gift cards as being worth 5% less than face value. Going forward, I’ll adjust that to 5%-6% since no-rush shipping is often fine for me.
It’s now possible to activate all 5% category credit cards for the first quarter of 2024, including the Chase Freedom, Chase Freedom Flex, Discover IT, Citi Dividend, US Bank Cash+ and some smaller cards. In this post we’ll provide the activation link for each card and links to track your spend, along with strategies to help increase spend in these categories.
Dates: January 1st – March 31, 2024. Store purchases can usually be done until the last minute while online purchases should be given a buffer zone of a day or two.
Chase Freedom – Grocery, Fitness, Gym, Spa
Activation Link / FAQ / Sample Stores & Exclusions / Our original post
With the Freedom and Freedom Flex cards, activate to earn 5% back this quarter on up to $1,500 in spend at Grocery Stores, Fitness Club & Gym Memberships, Self-Care & Spa Services.
Grocery Stores – This is always a favorite since we all shop for groceries. Plus, you can max this out by purchasing gift cards to other retailers.
The terms exclude Walmart and Target, though I believe in the past readers have said that these sometimes do get classified as a grocery store.
Merchants in this category include supermarkets, merchants that offer a full-service grocery line of merchandise including a deli and bakery, as well as smaller grocery stores.
Some merchants that sell grocery items are not included in this category; for example, larger stores that sell a wide variety of goods and groceries, such as warehouse clubs, discount stores and some smaller merchants such as drugstores, and merchants that specialize in only a few grocery items.
Purchases made at gas stations from merchants who also operate grocery stores are not included in this category.
Delivery service merchants will be included if they classify as a grocery store merchant.
Fitness Club & Gym Memberships
Merchants in this category include health clubs, exercise, or athletic facilities requiring membership and offering access to services related to physical fitness, such as fitness clubs, fitness centers, fitness studios, gyms, aerobics, cardio fitness and other services such as yoga and cross fit training.
Merchants that specialize in offering personalized or therapeutic services such as massage therapy, dietary and weight management counseling and personal training are not included in this category.
In addition, some merchants that sell a wide variety of general goods, which may include fitness or athletic apparel, sporting goods, dietary food, health food or similar supplements are not included in this category.
Also, certain lodging, hotel, motel, resort and central reservation services offering access to third party facilities that include fitness clubs or gyms are not included in this category unless they classify as a fitness club or gym membership merchant.
Self-Care & Spa Services
This category includes self-care and spa services, such as massages, spa treatments, manicures, tanning, and barber and salon services, purchased at merchant locations that specialize in providing these services.
Self-Care and spa services are typically provided by licensed professionals, however, services provided by medical professionals will not qualify.
Purchases of self-care and spa services at merchants that classify their location in another category, for example spa services purchased in a hotel, will not be included unless the merchant classifies the transactions in this category.
Purchases of related products and services, for example hair and skincare products purchased at a salon or an overnight stay at a spa, will also not be included unless the merchant classifies the transactions in this category.
Tip: Click this link (login required) to check how far you are along the $1,500.
Discover – Restaurants, Drugstores
Activation Link / Our original post
With your Discover card, activate to earn 5% back this quarter on up to $1,500 in purchases at Restaurants and Drugstores.
Restaurants – always a useful category
Drugstores – many pharmacies sell gift cards for a wide variety of retailers which is an option for maxing this out
Activate to earn 5% Cashback Bonus at Restaurants and Drug Stores from 1/1/24 (or the date which you activate 5%, whichever is later) through 3/31/24, on up to $1,500 in purchases. Restaurant purchases include those made at merchants classified as full-service restaurants, cafes, cafeterias, fast-food locations, and restaurant delivery services. Drug Store purchases include those made at stand-alone drug stores, pharmacies, online pharmacies, and some pharmacies located inside of retail stores.
Tip: Login, then click this link to see you how far along the $1,500 you are.
Citi Dividend – Amazon, Streaming
Landing Page | Our Original Post
With your Dividend card, activate to earn 5% back this quarter on Amazon and select streaming services. Citi is different than the other cards in that you have a $6,000 annual cap rather than a $1,500 quarterly cap. You can get 5% back on up to $6,000 in this quarter or you can save the entire amount for a different quarter, or you can use part up each quarter.
Amazon
Select Streaming Services – Includes the following cable, satellite, and streaming providers: Amazon Prime Video, Amazon Music, Apple Music, Disney+, DirecTV Stream, ESPN+, fuboTV, HBO Max, NBA League Pass, Netflix, Pandora, Paramount+, Showtime, Sling TV, Spotify, Starz, SiriusXM, Vudu, YouTube Red, YouTube TV, and Tidal.
US Bank Cash+/Elan – Select your Categories
Activation link | Merchant List | Our Original Post
U.S. Bank Cash+ and Elan Max offer 5% cash back in two categories, up to $2,000 combined total per quarter. Keep in mind that Car Rentals was recently replaced with TV, Internet, and Streaming Services.
Here are the current options:
TV, Internet, and Streaming Services
Home utilities
Select clothing stores
Cell phone providers
Electronic Stores
Gyms/Fitness
Fast food
Ground Transportation
Sporting goods
Department Stores
Furniture Stores
Movie theaters
Tip: Login here, then scroll down and click on the red “View Your Cash+ History” button.
Bank of America Customized Cash Rewards
Our Original Post
The Cash Rewards card from Bank of America offers 3% back on one selected category, up to $2,500 per quarter. If you don’t select anything it defaults to gas. Once you selected a category for one quarter, that remains your category in the future unless you change it. Each calendar month you can change it if you’d like, but you’re always limited to $2,500 for the entire quarter.
Gas and EV charging stations (default category)
Online Shopping; this category also includes cable, streaming, internet, and phone plan
Dining
Travel
Drug Stores
Home Improvement/Furnishings
This category is especially lucrative for those who have Preferred Rewards status with Bank of America which can get you 5.25% back on one of these categories at the higher relationship level.
Lots of useful categories here. Important note: the Cash Rewards card also offers 2% back at grocery stores and wholesale clubs up to $2,500 per quarter, and that $2,500 limit combines with the Category Selection limit. After spending $2,500, you’ll earn 1% back on everything.
Other Cards with 5% Category
Nusenda FCU – ADD ME
Landing Page | Our Original Post
Earn 5% this quarter on up to $1,500 in purchases on ADD ME
This is on top of the regular 1% for a total earn of 6% back. (apparently no longer the case?)
Abound CU – ADD ME
Landing page | Our Original Post
Abound Credit Union Visa Platinum card offers 5% on up to $2,000 on ADD ME purchases.
Langley FCU – Grocery, Wholesale & More
Landing Page | Our Original Post
Langley Federal Credit Union offers 5% back each month in one selected category, on up to $100 cash back total ($2,000 spend).
The category options at time of this writing: Streaming Services, Internet, Cable, Groceries & Wholesale Clubs, Department Stores
Vantage West [AZ] – Select your Category
Landing Page | Our Original Post
Get 5x points on the category of your choice, up to $1,500 per quarter. Eligible categories:
Safe Credit Union Cash Rewards Visa card offers 5% this quarter on your choice of one category each quarter (with no apparent limit). This quarter the categories are:
Citi has released the Q1 2024 5% categories on their old Dividend card, for those who still have it:
Amazon
Select Streaming Services – Includes the following cable, satellite, and streaming providers: Amazon Prime Video, Amazon Music, Apple Music, Disney+, DirecTV Stream, ESPN+, fuboTV, HBO Max, NBA League Pass, Netflix, Pandora, Paramount+, Showtime, Sling TV, Spotify, Starz, SiriusXM, Vudu, YouTube Red, YouTube TV, and Tidal.
Citi is different than the other cards in that you have a $6,000 annual cap rather than a $1,500 quarterly cap. You can get 5% back on up to $6,000 in this quarter or you can save the entire amount for a different quarter, or you can use part up each quarter.
Inside: Balancing a shoestring budget is possible and provides great rewards. With savings and budget strategies, you will find genius tips to manage your finances smartly!
With the rise of economic inflation, a growing number of people are finding the need for shoestring budgets to effectively navigate through their expenses.
Whether it’s planning for a low-cost holiday, initiating a frugal home makeover, or launching a start-up business with minimalist funds, the concept of a shoestring budget comes into play.
Moreover, it’s not only limited to low-income families but also extends to larger households and entrepreneurs that need to strategically lessen costs to achieve their goals. This is how many people reach financial independence sooner.
Then, let’s talk about a shoestring budget – an effective tool used to stretch finite resources, manage money wisely, and achieve financial goals, all while minimizing expenses.
If you’re familiar with the feeling of every dollar in your wallet counting, then this blog post is for you.
This post may contain affiliate links, which helps us to continue providing relevant content and we receive a small commission at no cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Please read the full disclosure here.
What is a Shoestring Budget?
A ‘shoestring budget’ means to accomplish a task or a project within a very limited or bare minimum budget. The shoestring budget work strategy involves curbing discretionary spending dramatically to take care of high-priority expenses.
Understood across various contexts like travel, events, and lifestyle, the term implies an approach of resourcefulness and discovery of low-cost alternatives to achieve desired results.
Not exclusive to households with low incomes, working with a shoestring budget expresses the art of making what’s deemed impossible possible, navigating time constraints, and maximizing minimal available funds.
Shoestring Budget Idiom Definition
According to Merriam-Webster, the official definition of a shoestring budget is: 1
“involving a relatively small amount of money for planned spending.”
‘Shoestring Budget’ Origin
The phrase ‘shoestring budget’ has an intriguing origin story that dates back to the 1800s in the United States. Fact-checks reveal that this term is indeed a reference to the precarious nature of a thin and weak shoestring, metaphorically implying a scarce and strained budget.2
Several theories have been proposed regarding its original use.
One theory suggests that the term ‘shoestring gambler,’ meaning someone gambling with a limited budget, might be the precursor to the idiom.
Another theory, based on British history, suggests that prisoners would lower a shoestring out of their cell to collect small donations from passersby, symbolizing the idea of managing with few resources.
Despite the debates around the phrase’s exact origins, it is undisputed that it signifies a tight budget situation.
How to live on a shoestring budget?
Living on a shoestring budget can be challenging but doable with a bit of dedication and planning.
Start by reviewing your regular expenses per month.
Cut down on unnecessary expenses as much as possible.
Monitor your small, daily expenses as they can add up significantly over time.
Refinance any existing debt to reduce interest payments.
Renegotiate contracts with utility providers, subscription services (consider uninstalling unused ones), or insurance for better rates.
Shop at thrift stores or choosing used items over brand new can also help you save.
The key to surviving a shoestring budget is self-control and determination to avoid impulsive spending.
Your goal is to prioritize essential needs over wants – a no spend challenge will help you with this. Remember, regular tracking and analysis of your personal site usage can provide valuable insights to manage your budget better.
How to travel on a shoestring budget?
Embarking on an adventure while on a shoestring budget requires creativity and pre-planning.
Be flexible with your travel dates, destinations, and mode of transport to take advantage of the best deals available.
Consider options such as budget airlines, off-peak travel times, and less touristy locations.
Staying in budget accommodations, or even trying out housesitting, can significantly cut down your lodging costs.
Eating at local fresh markets rather than restaurants will not only save you money but also provide a more authentic experience.
Plan your daily activities; consider free local events, parks, and attractions.
Always carry a water bottle to avoid buying expensive drinks.
With careful planning, traveling on a shoestring budget can make your journey all the more rewarding and memorable.
How to Save Money on a shoestring budget?
Saving money while on a shoestring budget might appear challenging, but it’s not impossible. Begin by monitoring your expenditures and identifying areas where you can potentially save money. Also, consider substituting costly activities with more affordable or free ones.
Every small action counts when you’re on a shoestring budget, and these savings accumulate over time. Remember, consistent small savings can make a significant difference in the long run.
Starting a business on a shoestring budget
Starting a business on a shoestring budget requires careful financial planning and innovative thinking. Indeed, it may sound challenging, but numerous shoestring startups have surged to success by optimizing their business budgets. It is all about crafting a solid business plan that clearly delineates your budget and the efficient utilization of each dollar.
Maintain focus on essential expenses only. These expenses might include mandatory licenses, essential software for business operations, or even crucial industry-specific tools. Leverage your personal and professional networks for free advice and resources.
Also, make the most of free or low-cost online marketing strategies as these can be vital to shoestring business budgets. You can use effective strategies, like using different social media platforms for marketing or creating a blog, to broaden the reach of your business.
Remember, having the capital to start is important but it’s secondary to a truly novel idea, intense hard work, and a strategic approach. So, let your creativity thrive and work passionately towards growing your business.
Shoestring Budget Examples
Shoestring Vacation
Wedding or Honeymoon
Home Improvement
Business on a Shoestring Startups
Savings Goals
Financing your Next Car
A shoestring budget is not always related to bigger projects. It can also refer to the scenario where the money required for daily expenses, buying an item, or completing a project isn’t enough. Here, the person has to be creative and find ways to stretch the money to make ends meet.
Practical Tips for Surviving on a Shoestring Budget
In this section, we will present practical advice for managing a shoestring budget, derived from case studies of my readers and my own personal experience who have thrived despite financial limitations.
Whether you are budgeting on a low income or looking to reach FI number faster, this guide has you covered.
1. Starting with a Budget: Your First Step
Before you embark on your journey of living on a shoestring budget, the first step is to define a realistic budget.
Understand your total earnings and list all your monthly expenses.
Identify which expenses are necessary (rent, utilities, groceries) and which are discretionary (eating out, entertainment).
Now create a spending plan such that it covers all necessities, allocates some amount towards savings, and leaves a little for leisure.
A well-defined budget will be your roadmap to financial management success.
Remember, the goal is to live within your means but also to ensure you aren’t depriving yourself.
2. Make Saving Automatic
A proven way to save money on a shoestring budget is to make saving automatic.
In such a method, you can set up an automatic transfer when you get paid. Another idea is to use Acorns, which rounds up purchases made with your debit card to the nearest dollar and deposits the change daily into your savings account.
Essentially, you’re saving without even noticing it! These little amounts add up over a period and can really bolster your savings.
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3. Cut Back on Expenses
One of the most effective ways to operate within a shoestring budget is by reducing expenses. These can be small lifestyle changes, like cutting back on takeaways and preparing meals at home, walking or cycling instead of driving short distances or canceling unused subscriptions.
Specifically, you are looking to cut back your flexible expenses the most.
4. Look for Ways to Make Extra Money
Alongside cutting back on expenses, we continually stress the importance of finding ways to supplement your income. This could be from a side hustle, passive income, part-time job, or even a pay raise.
This additional income can help ease pressure on your shoestring budget. Also, it might provide an opportunity to explore new interests or passions. By diversifying your income streams, you make your financial situation more secure and flexible in unexpected circumstances.
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5. Utilize Free Resources
When it comes to saving money on a shoestring budget, the key is to utilize free resources and focus on essentials before spending money.
Thankfully, there are many vital ways to do this:
Find free things to do without spending money.
Use your local Buy Nothing group to find items before spending your hard-earned cash.
Learn and enhance your skills through free or low-cost online platforms like Udemy, Coursera, and YouTube.
Leveraging such resources can have a significant impact on your budget, leading to substantial savings for other meaningful expenses.
6. Look for Deals and Coupons
Another wise strategy when operating on a shoestring budget is seeking out deals and using coupons whenever possible. This game-changing approach can be applied to your grocery budget, dining, clothing purchases, and even travel.
Search for coupons in newspapers, magazines, or on coupon websites. Perhaps, subscribe to newsletters from your favorite retailers, a move that will provide straightforward access to information about sales and discount codes. Be mindful while shopping online or in stores, and always remember to rein in impulses, checking for any available discounts before purchasing.
Moreover, take advantage of holiday sales or Amazon Prime Day for larger purchases. Taking a little extra time to hunt for the best deals can significantly cut down your expenses and help you stick to your shoestring budget.
7. Utilize Household Resources
Leveraging what you already have in your household is another fantastic way to save money.
For instance, before running to the grocery store, take stock of what’s in your pantry and design meals around these items.
Also, consider repurposing and upcycling household items. An old ladder can turn into a chic bookshelf; jars can be used for storage.
Optimizing utility usage by switching off lights when not in use and limiting water usage can also reduce bills.
Start treating everything in your house as a resource with a specific purpose and value, including leftover food, old clothes, and used furniture. Every household item utilized efficiently can add up to visible savings over time.
8. Get Rid of Unnecessary Expenses
Perhaps the most crucial aspect of managing a shoestring budget is identifying and eliminating unnecessary expenses. These could include subscriptions to magazines or online services that you hardly use, dining out frequently, or buying expensive coffee daily.
Analyze where your money is going every month. You’d be surprised how the smallest changes can have a big impact on your budget. Eliminating even a few unnecessary monthly expenses can add up to substantial yearly savings.
Remember, the key is not to deprive yourself of everything but to find that balance between living comfortably and within your means.
9. Reduce Your Monthly Rent or Mortgage Payment
Want to slash a significant expense of your shoestring budget by considering ways to reduce your rent or mortgage payments? Could you move to a more affordable area or a smaller property?
For homeowners, look at refinancing your mortgage or negotiate better terms, resulting in lower monthly payments. Always remember to check if any fees would apply before proceeding with refinancing.
If relocation isn’t an option, consider renting out a spare room in your home or offering it on a vacation rental site.
If you are a renter, look at becoming a permanent housesitter.
Lowering these substantial expenses can make a huge difference in your budget, allowing you to allocate funds to other pressing areas, save, or even invest in building wealth.
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10. Be Creative When Paying Bills
When managing a shoestring budget, it can be helpful to get creative with the way you pay your bills. Sometimes, splitting payments between paychecks or paying on certain days can make managing your budget easier.
You could also consider bill negotiation services or check if you qualify for reduced rates based on your income. If meeting all payments becomes too strenuous, communicate with your service providers about it. They may have hardship programs or payment plans to assist during tough financial periods.
Remember, the key is to avoid late fees or penalties that could further strain your budget.
11. Leverage Technology to Save Time and Money
Make the most of technology to manage your shoestring budget. There are numerous mobile apps and online resources to help you track your expenditures, save money, pay bills, and even invest.
Budgeting apps can help you keep track of your income and expenditure, warn you when you’re nearing your limit, and provide valuable insight into your spending habits. Digital wallets can help you make secure transactions without the fear of losing cash.
Moreover, there are apps and websites to compare prices of different products, get the best deal alerts, apply instant coupons, or even earn cashback like Rakuten.
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12. Participate in a Mini Savings Challenge
As a fun and effective way to boost your savings, consider embarking on a mini savings challenge! These challenges break the intimidating concept of saving into manageable, small steps. They can vary based on duration and the amount you’re aiming to save.
For example, in a 52-week challenge, you save $1 in the first week, $2 in the second, and so on, until you’re saving $52 in the 52nd week. By the end of the year, you’ll have saved $1,378!
Not only does it make saving fun, but it also allows you to develop a consistent saving habit, crucial when budgeting on a shoestring.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
If you’re fortunate enough to have a budget that’s more than a shoestring, the principles discussed still apply. Having more resources doesn’t mean you should ignore opportunities to save and invest wisely.
So, whether your budget is minimal or ample, consider adopting these healthy financial habits to achieve your financial goals. Make sure to sock away any extra money into a savings or investment account so you aren’t tempted to spend it.
Starting to invest on a small budget involves several key strategies. You must pay yourself first each and every time you are paid.
Set up an auto savings plan through a high interest savings account to make sure you start earning interest.
Contribute enough to your 401(k) to take full advantage of your employer’s match, if available, and consider mutual funds with an initial investment as low as $500.
Pick one solid company wherein you believe data and financials are stable enough to invest in, and buy 1 share.
If you receive a work or tax refund bonus, allocate it towards your investments instead of immediate spending.
Key Takeaways: Managing Money Well on a Tight Budget
Managing finances on a shoestring budget can be a daunting task, but with the right strategies in place, it can become a way to achieve financial health.
This is something I did when I was a stay-at-home mom looking for ways to make money.
In the grand scheme of things, managing a shoestring budget is less about the money and more about your mindset. Yes, limited resources can present challenges, but your attitude and creativity can make a difference.
Embracing frugality, taking control of your financial choices, and building resourceful strategies can turn your constraints into opportunities.
Money comes and goes, but the ability to manage it effectively is a life skill that will always be beneficial. The real wealth lies in your ability to live within your means and make the most of what you have – turning your shoestring budget into a stepping stone towards financial independence and stability.
Remember, every journey starts small.
Day by day, these tips can help you improve your financial stability and achieve your goals, regardless of your budget size.
Source
Merriam-Webster. “on a small/tight/shoestring budget.” https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/on%20a%20small%2Ftight%2Fshoestring%20budget. Accessed December 5, 2023.
Grammarist. “Shoestring Budget – A Creative Expression for Limited Money.” https://grammarist.com/idiom/on-a-shoestring-and-shoestring-budget/. Accessed December 5, 2023.
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Credit score calculations remain mysterious, but there are several known ways you can potentially help your credit, such as making on-time debt payments and avoiding maxing out your credit card. Still, it can take a few months for those positive behaviors to be reflected in your scores.
The Ava Card aims to take the guesswork — and long wait — out of bumping up your credit score. This isn’t the credit card you apply for if you want to use it like, well, a credit card. The Ava Card, which is issued by Evolve Bank & Trust, puts pretty severe limits on how much you can spend and what you can spend on. The purpose isn’t making purchases. It’s growing your credit and moving on with your life.
Here are five things to know about the Ava Card.
1. You can use the card only for eligible subscription payments
First, a pretty big caveat to be aware of: Even though you’ll get a substantial credit limit (more on that in the next section), you can typically only use the Ava Card to charge up to $25 per month for participating subscription services. Ava’s website notes that you may be able to spend more than $25 “depending on your spend limit,” but it doesn’t get more specific about what would qualify you for that.
On the plus side, the list of eligible participants covers a lot of options: retail memberships like Amazon Prime and Walmart+, streaming services like Spotify, Hulu, Netflix and YouTube Premium, and even other services like cell phone and insurance providers.
2. It’s designed to build credit quickly
Payment history: If you’ve consistently paid bills on time or not.
Credit utilization: The amount of your credit limit that you use, expressed as a percentage. (The lower, the better.)
Length of credit history: Older accounts can be beneficial.
Mix of credit types: This includes credit cards and installment loans such as mortgages and auto loans.
Recent applications: Because applying for credit or a loan results in a hard inquiry, it can temporarily lower your credit scores to do so.
You’re granted a $2,500 credit limit, but as noted above you’ll face big restrictions in terms of how much of it you can use and where. While that’s not ideal for your purchasing power, it means your credit utilization will remain low.
Your bill is due seven days after you use the Ava Card to make that monthly subscription payment. The funds are automatically drawn from the bank account you linked to the card when you signed up. You must pay the bill in full. The Ava Card doesn’t charge interest, so you can’t get into debt with it.
Ava reports to the three major credit bureaus each week, 24 hours after your autopayment is made, in an effort to further speed up credit score gains.
3. It can be paired with another Ava product
In addition to the Ava Card, you can use the Save & Build Credit feature to hopefully accelerate your credit-building even further. This feature functions as a “savings loan” where you put $30 a month for 12 months into your wallet on the Ava app. Ava reports each payment to the credit bureaus as an on-time loan payment. (Note that missing a payment can hurt your credit score.) After 12 months, you get all your money back.
This feature addresses two factors that go into credit scores: payment history and mix of credit.
4. You’ll pay a monthly fee
Ava charges a membership fee of $6 per month if you commit to an annual plan, or $9 a month if you pay month to month. That translates to a yearly cost of $72 for the annual membership, or $108 for monthly payments.
The promise of a quick credit boost might make that cost worthwhile for you, but other options, like $0-annual-fee starter credit cards, could be more cost-effective. That’s assuming you also use those cards carefully by paying your bills on time, charging a small percentage of your credit limit and avoiding debt.
5. There’s no traditional card to graduate to
If the Ava Card helps your credit score, you’re more likely to qualify for a wider selection of credit cards. But you can’t use the Ava Card like a regular card, and there’s no other Ava-branded card to graduate to. So you’ll want to ditch that membership fee and shop around for other cards as soon as you reach your credit score goals.
Beloved YouTube couple Cody Kolodziejzyk (known simply as Cody Ko) and Kelsey Kreppel have had quite the year.
The two content creators kicked off 2023 by tying the knot and soon after announced that they are currently expecting their first baby.
And while the two became famous for podcasting about their lives, they are very mindful of not sharing the most intimate moments of their lives with their hordes of followers.
And there are A LOT of followers keeping tabs on Cody and Kelsey’s updates.
Cody has well over 6 million followers on YouTube alone, with another 2.1 million people following his updates on Instagram. Kelsey Kreppel has over 1 million followers on YouTube, with just as many followers on her Instagram profile.
Ms. Kreppel once told the New York Times that “even though I film our day-to-day life and people know a lot of what’s going on with us, Cody and I are really mindful about what we share and what we keep just for us.”
But one aspect of the YouTube power couple’s life is holding headlines these days: their lovely Malibu house recently hit the market (again), and scores of fans around the world are now rejoicing at the opportunity to peek inside Kelsey Kreppel and Cody Ko’s house.
And we have all the dirt on the couple’s beachfront home in Malibu.
Inside Kelsey Kreppel and Cody Ko’s house in Malibu, now listed for $3.7M
The irony isn’t lost on us. About two years ago, Cody posted a video (one that got him well over two million views) hating on celebrity houses.
And since he’s now a top earner on YouTube, successful podcaster, and a magnet for advertisers looking to tap into his large following, he now too qualifies as a celebrity whose house we want to gawk at.
Especially since the content creators’ Malibu house is rightfully touted as “a secluded oasis on the water” (in the listing held by The Agency’s Eric Haskell and Billy Rose).
With amazing ocean views, the 1,786-square-foot beachfront house comes with access to two pristine sandy beaches — on both sides — and some standout amenities like a half-court for basketball, a pickleball court, and space for four vehicles.
Key facts & figures
Bedrooms: 3
Baths: 4
Square footage: 1,786 sq. ft.
Year built: 1970
Lot size: 1,989 sq. ft.
Amenities: a half-court for basketball, a pickleball court, and space for four vehicles
Additional structures: a separate 1-bed, 1-bath guest house
Last sold: $4,495,000
Property photos
This isn’t the first time the content creators tried to offload the property
Property records and previous press coverage shows that Kreppel and Kolodziejzyk first listed the property back in March 2023 for $3,950,000.
The 1,786-square-foot beachfront home then had its price readjusted a couple of months later before being taken off the market.
It has now resurfaced as a $3,695,000 listing, with The Agency’s Eric Haskell and Billy Rose in charge of finding a buyer.
And if you think that’s a hefty price, know that one of the neighboring properties is on the market for a whopping $59 million (and that’s the discounted price, as the Ed Niles-designed masterpiece was previously listed for $68.8 million).
Where do Kelsey and Cody Ko live now?
Back in May 2023, the YouTube power couple upgraded to a 1950-built home nestled in the foothills above Zuma Beach in Malibu that was once owned by actress Reese Witherspoon.
Kelsey and Cody Ko paid $7.7 million for their new Malibu abode, a two-acre spread dotted with mature sycamore trees that has a heavily updated 4-bedroom house, a repurposed barn (with billiards area, a kitchen, bedroom, and a living/media room), another building housing a gym and media room, and an Airstream trailer that sleeps four.
So it’s safe to say that the content creators very much enjoy living in Malibu but they simply outgrew their Pacific Coast Highway property.
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Hype House: the TikTok Mansion Owned by Some of the Internet’s Biggest Stars
The Chase Amazon Prime credit card will be getting an increased signup bonuses from November 17th – December 4th:
Prime members get $200 Amazon gift card instantly upon approval for the Chase rewards Prime Visa credit card.
Card Details
No annual fee
No earnings cap
No foreign transaction fee
Standard Visa Signature benefits (a full list is available here)
Earning details:
Earns 5% back at Amazon.com & Whole Foods with an eligible Prime membership
Earns 3% back at Amazon.com & Whole Foods without an eligible Prime membership
Earns 2% back at restaurants, gas stations, local transit, commuting
Earns 1% back on all other purchases
Amazon may offer you ways to earn bonus points through the program or special promotions
Read our full review of the card here.
Our Verdict
The regular bonus is $50 for non-Prime and $100 for Prime; $200 ties the highest bonus we’ve seen. The bonus is especially interesting given the zero spend requirement. The card also earns 5% at Amazon and Whole Foods which a lot of people will find useful. Note, the $200 bonus is for Prime members only. We’ll add this to our List of Best Current Credit Card Signup Bonuses.
Us Weekly has affiliate partnerships so we may receive compensation for some links to products and services.
While everyone else is out there getting ready for Halloween, we’re over here celebrating Way Day! It’s Wayfair’s biggest sale of the year, and it ends tonight. Put away your pumpkins and cancel your costume party, because we have more pressing priorities at hand! Right now, take up to 80% off top-selling furniture and decor at Wayfair. You do not want to miss these flash deals!
Since the holidays are on the horizon, we decided to focus on holiday home decor deals from Way Day. Below are the best bargains, from Christmas trees to Hanukkah candles. Get into the holiday spirit with these festive finds from Wayfair!
Christmas Trees & Wreaths
Hang a shining star upon the highest bough, and have yourself a merry little Christmas now! These Christmas trees and wreaths will make your home feel cheerful and cozy.
Holiday Lights
What a bright time, it’s the right time to rock the night away! May your days be merry and bright with these festive holiday lights.
Hanukkah Decorations
Hanukkah, oh Hanukkah, come light the menorah! This porcelain menorah is absolutely gorgeous — coastal chic and classic.
Classic Accent Pieces
Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow! This cute snowman will greet your guests with a smile.
Not done shopping? See more of our favorite products below:
11 Best Amazon Prime Day 2023 Holiday Decor Deals
The Best Amazon Holiday Beauty Haul High-End Deals
36 Last-Minute Amazon Halloween Deals That Will Arrive In Time
See more Us Weekly Shopping
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The Shop With Us team may receive products free of charge from manufacturers to test. In addition, Us Weekly receives compensation from the manufacturer of the products we write about when you click on a link and then purchase the product featured in an article. This does not drive our decision as to whether or not a product or service is featured or recommended. Shop With Us operates independently from the advertising sales team. We welcome your feedback at [email protected]. Happy shopping!