Smart buying can save you time and money

It's been said that a fool and his money are soon parted. I believe it. Just look at those in the entertainment industry and the big lottery winners who "made it big" and then "lost it all."

While the Bible teaches that "the love of money is a root of all evil," it's also true that the wise use of money for God's approved purposes is inherently good and useful. The family that shops wisely stays out of debt and teaches children to be discerning buyers.

Learn how to save more, spend less, avoid rip-offs: Explore Clark Howard

Here are just a few practical things I have learned which I hope will help you:

Automobiles

The most reliable cars that save your repair bills are Hondas and Toyotas, with honorable mention to newer Fords
Consumer Reports' 2008 Annual Car Reliability Survey »
2008 'Most Reliable' Cars Also Save Gas »

My personal car-buying advice: Purchase a very reliable car for the least money possible. Not only do they make the best engines, owning a Honda keeps me out of the mechanic’s shop.

I buy used privacy party to keep down the price and ensure quality. First, I determine which car will suit my needs. Then I search online for used cars in my area.

For ones I like, I perform an owner history check via AutoCheck and get a free appraisal via Edmunds. If the seller is the original owner or I have evidence that the car was well maintained by two successive owners, I phone or email the seller and ask some good questions. This is where I can also ask what's the lowest price the'’ll accept.

If the vehicle still sounds good, I schedule an appointment to test drive it, do a visual inspection, and review the maintenance records. If I decide to buy the car, I make my offer contingent on the first car receiving a clean bill of health from mechanic of my choosing. I leave all the paperwork processing to AAA or a bank or a credit union that has good rates on used car loans.

New car shopping: Before you buy a new car, learn how to "beat the car salesman".

Tires

My personal tire-buying advice: Don't settle for substandard tires or high prices. I buy high-quality tires (good for wet, dry, ride and comfort) at discount prices at TireRack.com, which will ship them to the location of my choice.

First, I research the tires I need and read consumer reviews. I look at 'Survey Results' for a touring tire that owners report provides a good ride, low noise, and sometimes a comprehensive road test. These survey results and tests tell me the different between good, fair and mediocre tires and make the selection process an informed pleasure. 

Next, I arrange with a local store to receive and mount and balance each tire for $15 to $25. Once that's done, I order the tires, get notified when they arrive, and make an appointment. Doing it this way gets me the best tires for less. Alternatively, I can ask a local shop what their lowest out-the-door price is, but few will beat the TireRack deal.

Cell phone service

You can get unlimited calls from a local company much cheaper than from a nationwide carrier.
How do I choose a cell phone service and other consumer tips from Clark Howard »

Vacuum

The best vacuum brand I know and use is Miele.