New house, new habits! Your big move is the perfect time to change the way you spend and save a few quid. Here are some easy tips to get you budget friendly without cramping your lifestyle.
Our energy bills account for a large portion of annual expenditure, going green, making your home/food/commute/lifestyle more eco-friendly could also help drive down bills.
For example, spending just 1 minute less in the shower can save you up to £15 a year, switching devices off at the plug rather than leaving them on standby can save another £50-£80 a month… Once you get going, the green savings can really add up.
Many insurers lure new customers with great deals, then whack the price up when we ‘auto-renew’ our contract. Some companies will offer you a renewal deal, but it might not be the best available. Shop smart, when it’s time to re-sign, tell them you’re looking elsewhere and watch the renewal price tumble.
See above and be prepared to shop around for a better price.
Not all telephone and broadband deals are created equal. In fact, it’s a bit of a postcode lottery. Some deals/services/price plans are only available in selected towns/regions.
Like many services, TV and broadband companies are in no hurry to clarify their pricing, the murkier it is, the more customers will simply surrender and pay up. There are invariably better tariffs and price plans if you do a quick online search, using your (currently overpriced) broadband.
Remember you’re in a strong bargaining position, you have something companies want… Your custom! So whatever the service, haggle. With just a little persistence and a friendly “Weeeellll…. I think I’m going to look at deals from other companies…”, you might find there is wriggle room on that ‘fixed price’ after all.
Be extra nice, many service agents spend a large portion of their being yelled at by angry customers. If you’re friendly and polite they’re more likely to help you get that deal.
There are online services that will do the switch for you. You enter your details, they’ll track prices and automatically switch you to the best price plan when it’s time to renew, taking all the hassle out of the process and saving you pounds.
The school run, driving to work, the 5-minute drive just to get milk, it’s convenient but is it necessary? We’re all creatures of habit, and sometimes we’re a bit lazy. A 15-minute bike ride, brisk walk or public transport could make the planet, your bank account and even your waistline healthier!
Companies and nearby attractions often offer discounts to locals. Your new neighbours are probably already in the know, so sound them out to learn about the best deals open to people in ‘tha hood’.
Convenience food comes with a price. The cost of pre-packaged sandwiches, that lunchtime trip to the pub, your daily triple-latte-macchiato-hazelnut-accino, could instead go towards the next family holiday. Making your own lunch can also be a lot healthier.
When it comes to groceries and high street stores, showing loyalty is best. Loyalty cards/apps can get you lower prices, updates on new offers or events and while earning reward points to save you even more money.
