I’m always just a little sad to see summer coming to an end. But if you start thinking like a true Budget Smart Girl, there are plenty of things to love about the beginning of fall. Autumn can mean plenty of ways to save money. Here’s how-
Grab the Last of the Summer Bounty
I’m still seeing the produce department at my local supermarket brimming with items like corn, beans, tomatoes, herbs. Plan ahead and turn them into salsa, sun dried tomatoes, and yes, even soups.
Grab the Fall Produce
September means the beginning of apple season and once again think ahead to meals for the colder days that are just around the corner. Baked apples, apple crumble, apple butter…all recipes that freeze well.
Head to the Stores
Think ahead to next summer and buy the last of this year’s summer clothes, sandals, and yes, even outdoor furniture, umbrellas and outdoor slides and swings for the children.
Hold a Sale
I’ve held garage sales in the summer and fall and on average have made more money in the fall. One reason, the kids are back in school and moms have more time to browse and yes, buy.
Go Christmas Shopping
I’ve been receiving Christmas catalogs in my mailbox for a couple of weeks now, and while I’m not quite ready to buy anything from them, it’s a good time to look the sales local stores are offering and buying a gift or two for someone on your list.
Head to the Beach
The main vacation season is coming to an end and that means savings for you. Go online and search through sites like Expedia, Orbitz, etc, and check out the bargains.
Load Up on Office Supplies
The stores are still full of back to school supplies and if you run a home office, there’s no better time to stock up on typing paper, pens, etc.
Get Ready for Winter
Utility prices, just like everything else are on the increase and fall’s the best time to check your house to see that you’ve got enough insulation in the attic. Or maybe you need to caulk around the window frames again.
Get A Head Start on Next Year’s Garden
Fall is the best time of the year to plant new seed on your lawn and to fertilize your lawn. The seed has more of an opportunity to grow before the summer sun starts to burn it up and Mother Nature will probably give the new lawn a free watering.