5 ways buy-and-sell can help you this 2015

MANILA, Philippines – It’s not hard to see why online shopping is such a hit among Filipinos: it saves time, effort, and quite a lot of money. If you’re a busy mom or homemaker, you’d agree that these three things are very important.

At this point, you’re probably done writing your New Year’s resolutions. But do you already have a strategy on how to accomplish them for the coming months?

Any goal should come with a deadline. Instead of giving yourself the whole year to tick off each item on your list, plot out your big plans across several months. That way, you’ll have a clearer, more achievable timeline of when to start accomplishing them.

Below, we’ve listed five ways on how you can use online buy-and-sell to accomplish goals that you may have set for yourself this year. We hope you find our suggestions inspiring and doable.

Recharge (January-February)

The start of the year is perfect for making good on that promise to build a “Better You.” Make 2015 your year to start baking, get into cycling, or maybe even climbing Mt. Pulag! Don’t have the gear? No problem. If you’re a first-timer, you can test the waters by using secondhand or bargain-priced gear that are not only branded, but still in very good condition. Then, if you feel like this pursuit is the one, go ahead and invest in your gear, and commit to your new passion. Who knows – you can even turn your newfound hobby into a family affair.

Redercorate

Redecorate (March-April)

During vacation season, the kids are home all day. It’s the perfect opportunity to get them to join you in doing your annual spring cleaning and redecorating projects. Have them go through their stuff, from clothes to toys, for items that can be given away or can still be sold. You’d be surprised at how fast they are able to let go of a coveted item once you tell them that new and better stuff can be bought from the earnings.

Are you remodeling the kitchen or redecorating the bedroom this year? You’re probably getting rid of a few items – and looking for upgrades in decor or furniture. You can easily sell the pieces that you don’t need anymore online. Then, use the income to acquire new, unique pieces to spruce up your place.

Refresh (May-June)

Busy mommies deserve a little break now and then. A little retail therapy goes a long way – think of it as your reward for all the hard work you do. Treat yourself during Mother’s Day weekend – you deserve it!

No time to shop? You don’t have to go the mall to purchase something you’ve always wanted for yourself, like a new dress, or a pair of high-end headphones. You can do that online. If you’re looking for a convenient way to relax at home, me-time equipment (such as DIY spas or even a massage chair) are also sold online. Most of the pre-loved items available in this category are practically brand new. Take advantage!

You can also refresh your outlook for the rest of the year by trying something out-of-the-box. Is there a crafts project that you’ve been wanting to finish? A jewelry-making business that you’ve always wanted to start? Just go ahead and start it today. Within an afternoon, you can research online and purchase most of the supplies you’ll need.

Remodel (July-September)

Before the Holiday spending spree kicks in, start planning and preparing for those big investments for next year. If your family is growing, then it makes sense to level up with a new set of wheels, or a bigger space where your kids can play and learn. Gone are the days of tiring door-to-door inquiries and flyer-seeking: many car and residence owners now prefer to post their listings online, complete with details from floor area to rooms to rent/sell price and more. Canvas, canvas, canvas! If you find something that makes your heart skip a beat, pick up the phone and make your inquiry. Big financial leaps need proper planning. Exploring your options is the first step.

Rekindle (October-December)

Start your Holiday shopping early! As soon as the “ber” months kick in, draft your list and brainstorm several options for each person on your list. Arm yourself with the discipline to think each item through to avoid unnecessary splurging.

Prioritize gifting items that your loved ones won’t easily buy in malls or shops. Find rare and unique gifts for the family through online buy and sell, such as collectibles, items not available locally, or upgrades for their most-loved items.

This season is also the perfect opportunity to reward YOU! Did you fall in love with a balikbayan pasalubong, such as a limited edition makeup item or perfume that is not locally available? Go online and find someone who is selling that exact item – for a fraction of its overseas cost.

How are you planning to make 2015 your year? Do you have your own buy-and-sell tips and strategies? Share with us in the comments section below. – Rappler.com