Money Monday: Buy Smart

WSVN -- Jolie Gonzalez almost never buys new clothes for her three sons.

She saves hundreds of dollars a year by buying used.

Jolie Gonzalez: "I go to Salvation Army on Wednesdays cause it's 50 percent off. Everything is $2 or $3 at the most."

For even more savings, shoppers look for specials like Wacky Wednesday at Salvation Army where all clothes are half off the already low prices.

Donna McNatt: "Salvation Army is the best kept secret around. It really is."

Shoppers can literally save 50 to 90 percent!

Dan Vail: "I know for a fact that some of this, some I mean this is Jos A. Banks, it's Quicksilver, it's name brand. The ties a buck, jeans I get for about $3. Those same jeans in a department store are $70. You can find name brands in here all day long."

For books, your local library often sells surplus like hardcovers for $2 each. And don't forget you can check them out for free.

If you need furniture, consignment stores, yard sales and Craigslist can save you a bundle.

And experts say you should think twice about buying a brand new car.

Scott Fanelli: "Right when you drive off of the curb most cars typically depreciate 20 to 30 percent."

Smart shoppers buy used to keep from paying the sticker price.

Scott Fanelli: "It's always good to consider a car that might have a few miles on it specifically if it's certified, pre-owned. You're going to get that extra warranty that comes with it. You're going to get manufacture lower financing so you're going to get a better deal when it comes to financing the car as well."

Jolie bought her Honda Pilot used and saved $7,000.

Jolie Gonzalez: "There's no point in spending extra money for something you can get as long you can get it for the same quality for something that's used you might as well. It makes sense."

The Salvation Army
http://www.uss.salvationarmy.org/uss/www_uss_fortlauderdale.nsf