10 Things You Should Always Buy Secondhand

Let’s be real—life is expensive. From daily essentials to big-ticket purchases, it can feel like your paycheck disappears in a flash. But here’s the good news: you don’t have to buy everything brand-new!

In fact, there are some things you should always consider buying secondhand. Not only can you save a ton of money, but you can also find high-quality, unique items that are just as good (if not better) than what you’d get fresh off the shelf.

So, before you rush to pay full price, take a peek at these ten things you should always buy secondhand. Trust me, your wallet will thank you!

1. Furniture

Furniture is one of those things that you can almost always buy secondhand and save a ton of money. Whether you’re looking for a cozy couch, a sturdy dining table, or a unique bookshelf, you can find high-quality, pre-loved pieces for a fraction of the price of new items. Plus, used furniture often has more character and charm, especially if you score something vintage or handmade.

Think about it—why pay full price for something that’s going to get worn in anyway? You can easily find secondhand furniture in excellent condition at thrift stores, estate sales, or even on online marketplaces like Facebook or Craigslist. Many times, people are selling just because they’re redecorating, not because there’s anything wrong with the piece.

Another benefit of buying secondhand furniture is that it’s environmentally friendly. By opting for pre-owned items, you’re helping reduce waste and keeping perfectly good furniture out of landfills. So, not only is your wallet happy, but the planet is too!

My entire house is filled with gorgeous vintage or antique furniture, and it helps that the house is from the 1920s so it all fits the style so well. I even have an antique stained glass lamp and I would hurt someone if they tried to steal it from me!

2. Clothing and Accessories

When it comes to fashion, buying secondhand is a no-brainer. You can find so many stylish, gently used clothes for a fraction of what you’d spend at the mall. Thrift stores, consignment shops, and online platforms like Poshmark or Depop are treasure troves for unique finds and great deals. Plus, you can snag some high-end brands for way less than their retail price.

Secondhand shopping isn’t just about saving money; it’s also a fun way to express your personal style. You never know what gems you’ll come across, from vintage dresses to designer handbags that someone barely wore. It’s like a treasure hunt! And let’s be honest, fashion trends cycle so fast that you can often find items that are still in style but for a lot less.

And just like with furniture, buying secondhand clothing is a great way to reduce your environmental impact. Fast fashion can be harmful to the planet, so when you choose secondhand, you’re giving clothes a second life and supporting sustainable shopping habits.

Trends move so quickly that it’s best to spend time thrifting pieces that are timeless and that you love so you’ll actually wear them, instead of just adding everything to a landfill when its out of style in a few months.

3. Your Car

Buying a brand-new car is one of the biggest financial mistakes you can make. The second you drive a new car off the lot, it starts losing value, sometimes as much as 20%! That’s why buying a used car is almost always the smarter choice. With a little research, you can find a reliable, well-maintained vehicle for thousands of dollars less than the sticker price of a new one.

Used cars today are built to last much longer than they used to, so you can easily find a car with plenty of life left in it. Certified pre-owned programs from dealerships even come with warranties, so you get peace of mind without the hefty price tag. Plus, the variety of secondhand cars available means you can get the model you want without breaking the bank.

On top of that, buying secondhand also helps you avoid the steep depreciation that new cars experience. Let someone else take the hit while you enjoy the savings. Whether it’s your first car or an upgrade, going for a pre-owned vehicle is a smart move for your budget.

4. Electronics

Electronics can be expensive, but if you buy secondhand, you can score some serious savings. From laptops and smartphones to cameras and gaming consoles, there are plenty of reliable, gently used electronics out there waiting for a new home. Sites like eBay, Swappa, or even local electronics stores often have great deals on refurbished or used items.

Just because something is secondhand doesn’t mean it’s outdated. Many people sell their gadgets simply because they’re upgrading to the latest model, which means you can get a like-new device without the new price tag. Plus, lots of refurbished electronics come with warranties, so you’re protected if something goes wrong.

The best part? You can often find models that are no longer available new, but still have all the features you need. Why pay for the latest and greatest when a slightly older version can do the job just as well for half the price?

I used to be one of those people who always needed the newest iPhone and getting off that hamster wheel has saved me 1000s of dollars over the past few years.

5. Appliances

Major appliances like washing machines, refrigerators, and dishwashers can be pricey when bought new, but buying secondhand can save you hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars. As long as you check that the appliance is in good working condition, there’s no reason to spend a fortune on something brand-new. Many secondhand stores even offer warranties on used appliances, giving you extra security with your purchase.

People often sell appliances when they’re moving or upgrading their homes, so it’s not uncommon to find secondhand items that are barely used. Plus, if you’re looking for something simple and don’t need all the bells and whistles, buying used is a great way to get what you need without paying for unnecessary features.

It’s also worth checking out floor models or refurbished appliances, which are often discounted but come with the same functionality as brand-new ones. Whether you’re upgrading your kitchen or laundry room, buying secondhand appliances can give you the quality you need without the sky-high price.

6. Books

Books are one of the easiest things to buy secondhand. Whether you’re looking for the latest bestseller or a classic novel, you can find a wide selection of gently used books at thrift stores, garage sales, or online marketplaces like ThriftBooks or AbeBooks. The best part? They cost a fraction of what you’d pay at a bookstore.

Books don’t really wear out the way other items do, so even a well-loved novel is still in perfectly readable condition. You can often find rare or out-of-print titles that you wouldn’t be able to buy new, and for avid readers, buying secondhand is a way to feed your reading habit without going broke.

Plus, there’s something special about a pre-loved book. It might have notes in the margins, or a creased spine, or even a little inscription from the previous owner, adding a layer of history and charm to your reading experience.

You can even find (or start) a little free library in your neighbourhood, people love sharing books and decluttering ones they already have!

7. Tools and Equipment

If you’re into DIY projects or home repairs, buying secondhand tools is a smart way to save money. Power tools, gardening equipment, and even basic hand tools are often sold secondhand by people who’ve barely used them. You can find everything from drills and saws to shovels and hammers for a fraction of the cost of new ones.

Tools are built to last, so buying used doesn’t mean you’re getting something worn out. In fact, many tools have a long lifespan and perform just as well secondhand. Whether you’re looking to outfit your garage or tackle a specific project, you can find high-quality tools without blowing your budget.

Check out yard sales, pawn shops, or even local classifieds for deals on tools. And if you’re not sure what you need, buying secondhand is a great way to test the waters without investing too much upfront.

There are so many people out there who buy a bunch of fancy tools to do one DIY project and never touch it again, so you can really find some good stuff.

8. Bicycles and Sports Gear

If you’re into cycling, skiing, or any other outdoor activity, buying secondhand sports gear can save you a ton of money. A lot of people invest in expensive gear, only to use it a few times before it collects dust in their garage. That’s where you come in, ready to snap up high-quality equipment for a fraction of the price.

Bikes, in particular, are a great thing to buy secondhand. As long as you check the condition and make sure everything’s in working order, you can get a solid, reliable ride for a fraction of what you’d pay new. And since bikes don’t lose their value as quickly as cars, you can feel confident you’re making a good investment.

This same principle applies to sports equipment like skis, snowboards, or camping gear. As long as the equipment is in good condition, buying used can get you outdoors without draining your bank account.

9. Baby Items

If you’ve ever bought baby gear, you know how fast it adds up. But here’s the thing—babies grow out of things so quickly that a lot of their stuff is barely used. From clothes and strollers to cribs and toys, there’s a massive secondhand market for baby items that are still in great condition.

You can often find gently used baby gear for a fraction of what it would cost new, and since most items are designed to last, you’re not sacrificing quality. Just make sure to check for recalls and ensure everything is safe before buying. Thrift stores, online marketplaces, and mom groups are great places to start your search.

Secondhand baby items are not only budget-friendly but also eco-friendly, helping you reduce waste while saving money. And let’s be real—why spend top dollar on things your little one will only use for a few months?

10. Home Décor and Artwork

When it comes to decorating your home, buying secondhand can open the door to unique finds that you just can’t get in big-box stores. Whether it’s a quirky painting, a vintage vase, or a cool sculpture, secondhand home décor adds character and charm to your space. Plus, it’s way more affordable than buying brand-new pieces.

Estate sales, flea markets, and thrift stores are goldmines for interesting and one-of-a-kind décor items. You can find pieces that fit your style without blowing your decorating budget. And since trends change so quickly, buying secondhand allows you to switch things up whenever you want without spending a fortune.

The best part? Secondhand décor often comes with a history or story behind it, giving your home a more personal touch. So, whether you’re looking to revamp a room or just add a little flair, check out the secondhand market first. We have an entire wall of pre-loved picture frames and some are even from our old neighbours before they moved, so they feel extra special!

The next time you’re thinking about making a purchase, consider checking out the secondhand market first. Whether it’s your car, furniture, or even your wardrobe, buying used is a smart way to save money and score some great finds.

Plus, you’re doing your part to reduce waste and live a little more sustainably. So, why pay full price when you don’t have to? With these tips in mind, you’ll be shopping smarter, saving more, and maybe even finding a few hidden treasures along the way. Happy thrifting!

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