Is it a bargain?

In this economy we all like a bargain. And the manufacturers who make the products know this. It is well known that certain businesses increase their prices around the holidays. They jack up the price so they can allegedly discount it. You might notice big colorful sale signs on products but if you are keeping track you will notice the price is not a sale price. I have been tracking a particular item I think is overpriced waiting for a sale. Different stores will have the "sale" signs on the "reduced price" but the price is always the same. Some will even have a fictitious "before" price. Stores try to get you to overbuy by advertising "10 for $10." You could always buy one for a dollar with no problem. Now you need to make sure there is no minimum. Some will only be at that price if you buy 10. If you buy one it may be at regular price.

You might be tempted to buy the ten products for ten dollars if you stockpile your groceries. But only if you use that product a lot, if it has a long enough expiration period or you can really give it to the needy or someone else you know who likes it. You could find yourself hoarding groceries that you really don't like because of the price. Shopping has become more complicated as of late so we all need to stay ahead of the game.

The dollar stores still have some good bargains but their prices are moving up like the old Five and Dime Stores did. You have to look carefully at the prices. Even when they are a dollar the quality might be so poor as to be worthless.

Coupons are good to use but they can be just a come on. Try to stick to your normal buying habits and not buy something just because you have a coupon. Store brands or less popular brands might be cheaper than the item with the coupon. Also notice if you buy things that have coupons that you would not normally buy. Many junk and heavily processed foods will come with coupons. You want your family to eat healthy at reduced price but mainly healthy.