The Best Time to Buy Things

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Have you ever wondered when was the best time to buy certain items?

Sure, you may see items on sale. But, is that really the best time to buy it or are these companies just trying to entice you to purchase at that time? Recently, I came across this list from Lifehacker, The Best Time to Buy Anything Year Round, and I thought I would weigh in with my two cents.

First Quarter

Most of these items seem to be on the back burner of most people’s minds. What time of year do most people really look to purchase a boat? I guess no better time than the beginning of the year to make that purchase.

In my mind, Christmas decor/supplies would be on sale in this quarter, instead of wedding supplies. I haven’t been to many winter weddings, but I did recently learn that December is the most common month for proposals. Thus, future brides may begin purchasing wedding items during the first quarter.

January

None of the items on the list really stand out to me. After Christmas, I figure most people are trying to unload gift cards that they received from the Aunt and Uncle that they see once a year. I know my wife saves a lot on Cardpool when she buys used gift cards so that I can spend less at lunch throughout the year.

February

I think it’s really interesting that Broadway tickets make it on both the January and February lists. I’m not sure if that’s a typo, or if Broadway is trying to convince people that they need to come visit New York in January and February. Either way, as someone who hates cold weather, I’ll be taking a pass.

March

Chocolate?

What the heck is chocolate doing on here?

I’m an idiot. I just remembered that Valentine’s Day is in February. Of course, Valentine’s chocolate will be on sale.

Second Quarter

I’m surprised to see that TVs go on sale in the second quarter. I was always under the impression that they were cheapest right after the Consumer Electronics Show in January. Clearly, buying a big screen for the “Big Game” may not be fiscally responsible.

April

As someone who loves cruising, this caught me off guard. I had no idea that cruises were cheapest in April. Good to know. Looks like I need to pay closer attention next April, as I’m hoping to do a cruise to Antarctica sometime soon. We’ll see if Mrs. MSM agrees.

May

The items in May perplex me. I don’t quite understand why mattresses would be on sale. Maybe all of the college graduates who are looking for their first place after college need new mattresses? But, I thought most millennials move back home first, so their old beds should suffice. Who knows why mattress makes this list!

June

Gym memberships on sale in June makes a ton of sense. Most people sign up for gym membership in January. New year, new resolutions, new weight loss plans. By June, people are dropping their memberships due to lack of use and people aren’t signing up for them like they were in the beginning of the year. In June, it’s probably too late to achieve a beach body, although that doesn’t usually prevent wishful thinking of new gym goers.

Third Quarter

Does anybody else find it interesting that only computers are on sale in the Third Quarter? Every other quarter has multiple items for sale except for the third quarter. As many of you know, Apple and other computer companies release their latest model in the fall. Usually, computers drop in price due to the new upgrades. For someone who doesn’t need the latest and greatest, it’s a great opportunity to buy a computer on the cheap.

July

Furniture and home decor on sale in July? Maybe this is because most people move in the summertime. I can only guess that since more people move during this time of year, they are eager to find the best prices for home items after a probably expensive home purchase.

August

I suspect that most parents buy their kids’ wardrobes this time of year. There has to be a lot of competition among retailers to obtain your business. I can’t help but think that most parents get swept up in the back-to-school shopping frenzy. Why not buy bits and pieces of their clothing through the year? Maybe I’m missing something. Regardless, while it may not be completely feasible, I plan to keep my kids shopping at thrift stores as long as I can.

September

Before my wife and I had kiddos, we definitely took advantage of cheaper airfare in September. It’s nice travelling in September and October when most families have already gone on vacation. Less crowds and half as cheap, it was always a no-brainer for us.

Related: Budgeting for a Vacation

Fourth Quarter

Cars for this category seems accurate. Dealerships try to clear inventory at this time. It feels like if it’s not a political ad on TV, it’s a car commercial. So, I totally believe this one.

October

Broadway tickets make this list for the 4th time. Clearly, Broadway is hurting when it isn’t peak tourist season. So, anybody close to the New York area in October, this is clearly another good time to see a show.

November

Discounted candy in November seems logical following Halloween. I’m always happy when my wife stocks up on Hershey Kisses after Halloween. They are my favorite.

December

Champagne goes on sale. While I know many people enjoy champagne during the holiday season, who knew that it also went on sale? I would think that demand would cause champagne companies to raise prices. I guess like anything, when demand is high, companies may adjust to win the customers’ hearts.

So, readers, what do you think of the best time to buy things? Does anything on the list jump out to you? Share your thoughts below.