Best way to save money

1) Pack up smoking …
This is the BIG one. Never mind all that cash think of the health benefits plus increased self esteem and you will no longer stink. Get your doctor to help you - you’ll never regret it.

2) Don't impulse shop ...
Whether it’s food, clothing or household goods make a list and only buy what you setout to buy. If you see anything else wait two weeks and if you still want it, budget for it.

3) Beat the supermarkets …
Check the prices at your local street market. Lower overheads and the desire to be competitive should mean lower prices.

4) Cancel your gym membership …
You can jog in the street and enjoy the fresh air. Plus you'll soon save enough to buy your own bike and any other exercise equipment you may want.

5) Repay your mortgage early …
If you can afford to, use any savings to repay your mortgage as the interest you save will be much more than the interest you forgo. Or make regular overpayments on your mortgage and you'll clear your debt several years early and make massive savings.

6) Buy and Sell on eBay
Realise some cash by selling all your unwanted and surplus clothes, toys, electronic goods and furniture. You can also buy cheaper than in the shops.

7) Cut the cost of your fuel bills …
Gas and electricity prices have doubled recently so don’t allow inertia stop you checking out the competition. The domestic market is now very competitive and you can change supplier with a few clicks of the mouse. Your new supplier will take care of the formalities and you just pay less every month.

8) Bank Charges…
Learn to stay within your agreed overdraft limit as going over, even by a penny, can cost you dear.

9) Repay credit card debt …

Always clear your most expensive debt first, which is most likely to be your credit cards. If you don’t have the cash consider a lower cost loan.

10) Review all your insurance payments …

Shop around as you will always find cheaper motor, household and travel insurance. Companies rely on your inertia to rip you off with increased premiums.

11) Shop online …
The internet is taking over. Use a price comparison website to help find the best prices for bigger items. And even large retailers sometimes offer goods cheaper on their website. If you want to pick it up in store don’t be afraid to bargain as they will very often meet the price.

12) Review your bank statement …

It is very easy to forget older and small amounts so many people find they have direct debits and standing orders leaving their bank account and they no longer use the service provided. Make sue you know what is going out and why.

13) Review your mortgage …
Believe it or not lenders are quite happy for you to pay the standard variable rate while offering new customers a much better deal. Review your mortgage annually as this is a relatively easy way to save a lot of money. Just telling your lender you are thinking of moving can be enough to get a better rate.

14) Avoid extended warranties …
This is a big rip off when buying electrical goods which are now more reliable than ever. The sales person is very pushy so as to earn their commission but always say no.

15) Consider installing a water meter …
Without a water meter you pay a fixed rate based on the size of your home. So if you have a big home with few occupants you may be able to halve your annual bill.

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