The start of a new year is a time for optimism, and your quest to plan out your 2020 budget should be no exception. But when it comes to big-ticket purchases such as appliances or a big-screen TV, plan ahead to get the best deals. “There are particular times when certain things come up [for sale],” says Sanjay Putrevu, dean of Cleveland State University College of Business. Putrevu shares the best times to buy the big items on your shopping list.
Appliances
If you’re going to update your kitchen with a new oven or refrigerator, Putrevu says you’ll save the most green when the leaves start losing theirs. Around October, retailers begin slashing their prices. Putrevu advises factoring this into your budget before it’s time to open your wallet. “If you’re looking for appliances, then you say, ‘OK, I’m going to start saving for those things, and then buy them in fall,’ ” Putrevu says.
Electronics
Black Friday is king when it comes to deals on everything from TVs and laptops to tablets. But the deals actually extend out into January, especially for TVs, ahead of that big football game in February. “[Retailers are] saying, ‘Don’t you want to watch the Super Bowl on this 60-inch TV?’ ” Putrevu says. “So everybody wants to be in on the action.”
Furniture
If you’re finally throwing out that busted couch your aunt gave you when you graduated college, make sure you wait for the opportune time to kiss it goodbye. Putrevu says that much like car dealerships hold clearance sales in January and July on previous year models, the same applies to furniture. “You bring in the new styles in February and August,” he says. “So [before that], they are under pressure to get the stock out.”
Home Remodeling
Whether it’s your roof, garage door, floor or windows, there’s a chance your humble abode could use a face-lift. Putrevu says to hold off on traditionally summertime repairs until the weather turns since so many other people are also getting work done during that time. “If you want to get repairs or new things put in, it’s relatively easy to find flooring contractors or roofers available during the winter months, because not many people are doing it at that time.”
