With the days getting shorter and Christmas right around the corner, there’s no denying that the winter season is close at hand. If you live in the South, this may just mean some damp weather, an occasional jacket, and a greater number of cloudy, gloomy days. But for those of us in the North, winter means snow, cold, and ice – and the expenses that go along with such weather-related extremes.
In many respects, winter can be an incredibly costly season. And with the economy still mired in a recession and unemployment still uncomfortably high, many of us will be looking to cut our budgets this winter. If money is tight, and if we don’t suddenly generate income from a lump-sum or structured settlement, here are some tips to keep in mind:
Prepare in Advance
On multiple levels, being prepared for winter can help you reduce costs. Cold weather has its greater financial impact, for many people, on the high cost of their heating bill. With this in mind, it’s best to be prepared and insure that your house is properly insulated before winter begins. This may require paying to have an inspector come out and check your windows, walls, and doors. The expense, however, should be mitigated in the long-run by the savings accrued from lower heating bills. On a similar note, now may be the best time to buy any gloves, mittens, or hats that your family may need over the upcoming months. The cost is more upfront, but you’ll likely pay less for a pair of mittens in December than in January.
Do It Yourself
Far too many people fail to think twice before forking over cash for winter-related services. Whether it comes to changing your car’s oil or shoveling your driveway, there are lots of companies out there that are willing to do it for you – for a fee. But these expenses are often unnecessary. Instead, then, you may want to buy a shovel and learn to winter-proof your car. Your savings will add up quickly.
Look for Deals
With the economy down, many businesses that focus on providing winter-related services – whether those are vacation deals or Christmas presents – are warily anticipating a sub-par sales season. Consequently, you can probably expect to find deals and discounts to a much higher degree than usual. If you’re shopping for presents or looking to get away somewhere warm – and if you have some flexibility with what you specifically want – there’s probably a deal out there for you.
These are just a few tips for getting started on your winter savings. While the months of cold and snow may be a drain on your vigor and mental health, there’s no reason why they should similarly drain your wallet.
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