Spending some money to get some more money.

Or in other words, get big savings on your next purchase by maximizing your deal margin (the difference between the retail price and what you actually spend). Some times you need to spend some money to get a little more money. And some times you need to put some effort behind getting a great deal. A little planning, quick research and a little store loyalty love can get you a great deal. Combine these two efforts and win big savings on the items you want or need most. Check out my ideas and the example below to get a better understanding of this Nifty and Thrifty shopping tactic.


Buy Gift Cards and Use Them Yourself. Shop at your favorite retailers straight from your credit card's reward program. Use your cashback rewards, get great deals and discounts. For example, using a Discover Card Partner Offer, I spent $60 to get $75 by buying (3) $25 gift cards for $20 each. If you have a favorite retailer, it can make sense to have a few gift cards on hand for future purchases just for the extra dollars you can acquire. Most credit card companies offer similar programs. Some magazines are also starting subscriber loyalty programs (e.g., Good Housekeeping and Parenting) . Use your cashback bonus to purchase the cards and it costs you nothing. Otherwise, charge the purchase and save $15.

Use Member Only Coupons. Join the email listing of only your favorite retailers. Retailers are offering great incentives to draw you into the store. Lands End sent a “Save $15 off a $75 purchase (online or in-store Sears). If you don't want to have the deals come to you via an email black, then take a few minutes to search for deals at online coupon sites such as Couponmom, eCoupons, or ebates.

Drive to avoid the sales tax. I live near the border of three states. If I'm buying a big ticket item or doing multiple shopping errands, it can make sense to drive across the state line and escape the sales tax. It’s a small savings on most items purchases, but I’m on austerity budget so every penny saved is used elsewhere.

Check for In-Store Sales. Sears is currently running 30% off selected Lands End Merchandise. Sometimes the in-store deals are better than its internet counterpart. Stores need to move the inventory to make room for new merchandise, often they mark down the item before the discount posts on the website. You may be able to maximize your savings if what you’re looking for is on the 30% rack.

Now that you have the basics, let me show you how this Nifty and Thrifty plays out with a real life example:

$59: Lands End Dorey Jacket
$49: Canvas Tote with Patent Leather Trim
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$108.00 Total Retail Value of Items to be Purchased.
- $14.70 (30% off in-store sale for the $49 Canvas Tote)
- $15.00 ($15 off $75 members only coupon for Lands End)
- $15.00 ($15 saved by buying $75 worth of gift cards for $60 via Discover Card Back Rewards Program)
- $03.17 (Save 5% sales tax on canvas tote bought in a sales tax free state)
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$63.30 – Actual Total Price Paid ($44.70 – Amount Saved)

Do a Nifty and Thrifty. Be happier being a saavy shopper.