When I mention great investments — what do you think of? Do you think of a 401K with company match? Do you think of the stock you invested that took off? Do you think of an IRA? Well I say — none of the above! All of those would be great, but some of our greatest investments are right under our noses! In this economy it is nice to sit back and think of all of the investments that did pay off.
Here are some of my greatest investments:
Electric shaver:
I was sick of paying $40 a month for my two boys and hubby to get a haircut so I invested in an electric shaver. The thing cost only $40 at the time, so one haircut and it was paid for! Although my boys now will not allow me to do it, my husband still lets me. After nearly ten years my savings have been $4,000. That is a 10,000 percent increase!
Natural gas vehicle:
We were paying nearly $350 a month in transportation costs because of our two jobs and commuting to all of the sports my boys were in. After buying the vehicle and getting nearly $6500 in rebates (federal and state tax return), our gas costs dropped to $100 per month. We were amazed when it cost us just $35 to go round trip to Las Vegas (450 miles) and back and forth to Disneyland for just over $100. The car has not paid for itself, but the gas savings and rebates have paid for half of it in two short years!
Money Market accounts:
You put money in and you get it back plus interest. High yield money market accounts are an extremely smart way of earning money if you need it in the short term. Use RateCatcher.com to find the best money market rates and high yield savings accounts. Watch it grow baby!
Best pair of jeans:
Guys are lucky — they look good in any jeans. Women usually have to try on at least seven pair before we find one that fits — and we try on another seven before we find one that looks good on us. There is something to be said about strong, good looking jeans — they make you feel good. But what if you could get the $100 pair of jeans for a fraction of the cost? You can at a consignment store. Many women sell their jeans because they don’t fit any more or they need the money — and here is your chance to get those name brand jeans that last. I got my favorite paid of name-brand jeans for $3 at a consignment store.
Think of all the great investments you have around your house — the ones that have saved you money. I bet you have many. You don’t need to be a financial wizard to save a ton of money! Pat yourself on the back for a job well done.
