Parenting Hint: Consignment
If you know me, you know that I am what is considered cheap frugal. I enjoy getting a good deal. Lately, I’ve been getting good at using coupons - don’t stand in line behind me at KMart during double coupon days! 
I am always looking for a good deal. So, that’s what I am going to share with you today. One word: Consignment.
You may have heard of consignment shops before. You may have a negative opinion of them, and I am sure that a few of them deserve your negative opinions. However, I am here to tell you that consignment shops can be your friend - especially if you have kids!
Kids consignment shops typically have higher end clothes that retail for fairly high prices, but they sell them inexpensively. For example, the Ralph Lauren sweater my daughter was wearing the other day…
This sweater retails for $50.00. My cost: $10.00 - 40& off for a total of $6.00. Yes, you heard me right - $6.00. Now, you can’t always get such a good deal. Some consignment shops are relatively “expensive”. Meaning the price their items higher and closer to original retail prices. But you can always find a good deal.
If you’re going to shop consignment, it’s best to shop a few weeks after the new season stuff has come in. That’s when sales start to happen. If you’re looking for something in particular - ask the owner or salesperson to call you if it comes in. The good stuff tends to come in quick so it’s a good idea to let them know you’re looking for something so you can get first crack at it when it comes in.
If you want to sell your stuff at a consignment shop - that’s a great idea too. Typically, consignment retailers take anywhere from 30-60% of the sale price, so there is a premium required. However, they also know their clientele and can tell you what will sell so you aren’t likely to have something that won’t sell. My best advice - make sure that anything you are trying to sell is in excellent condition, cleaned and pressed and most importantly - something you would buy. If it’s not, it’s probably best to keep it for a garage sale or the Goodwill.
Once you get started you’ll become addicted. I know I did!
Good luck hunting!
*picture from http://ralphlauren.com
