Although the shopping season is technically over, there’s still a few things you may want to check out in the month of January. Since the holidays are finally out of the way, you should be able to concentrate more on things you need and want for your family and the home. Luckily, January is the month to splurge a little in these areas, so you don’t have to feel guilty over spending a bit more money on items you’ve had your eye on for a while. With savings as great as these, you may fall in love with January even more. So, grab your cash and get ready to save because January is the month to make your dreams comes true.
1. HDTV
A lot of people believe that Black Friday and Cyber Monday are the best times to grab a new TV. Although this is sometimes the case, it often isn’t always the best time to splurge in this area. In fact, January brings more HDTV sales than any other month, which will be good for your wallet and your entertainment. This is largely due to the fact that February is typically when the latest models of TVs hit the market. Thus, stores want to clear out as much as they can when it comes to their old stock. For last year’s models, you’ll probably find some pretty hefty savings. Of course, if you’re looking to get a bit more in regards to savings then you might want to go for an even older model. One key thing to do before shopping is to do a bit of research on the newer models vs the older models. You might find that the older models are very similar to the newer ones, which will make your savings go even further.
2. Tax Services
Tax season is rapidly approaching, even if it makes you cringe your teeth when you think about it. Although it might be hard to remove the frustration from this period of time, you can easily reap some benefits if you plan to spend money on tax services in the month of January. To begin with you should start looking at tax software. This will certainly help you get more out of your tax period and may even allow you to finish up your taxes from the comfort of your own home. Generally, this tax software can help you file taxes, but you can also find some software that will help you keep track of the money you need throughout the year which will help you big time in the new year. This software is especially important for those that run their own business or are freelancers. Apart from software, you may be able to find accountants and other tax experts that will help you through the process. Typically, these experts won’t charge as much as they would during the busy season because their time is booked.
3. Winter Clothes
Winter isn’t over just yet, which makes this deal even more fabulous. Although the cold is just beginning in some places, most retailer are ready to clear out their winter stock, so they can make room for the new spring line which will be added to stores next month. This is a great victory for you if you’re looking to buy a new coat, or you simply can’t get enough sweaters. This sale is also great for stocking up for next year, especially if you have children. Try shopping for a size or two larger, so you’ll be ready for the cold when it returns next year. This year’s sales should be even better than last year’s though, simply because winter took its time. Since it was still a little on the warm side in December, less people bought for the cold. This means you’ll not only have a better selection, but retailers will also be more desperate when it comes to moving the stock out of the way.
4. White Sales
January is known for it’s White Sale, which includes a wide variety of options. One of the most popular items to buy during this time of the year is towels. It’s always great to start the year out with a fresh set of towels and with prices taking a 50% dive, you’ll be ready to stock the whole home. Sheets and other linens are another must when it comes to the White Sale. In fact, just about any textile on your list will take a nosedive in price, which means you can totally redecorate your home for next to nothing. The sale isn’t all about the fabric though. Window treatments are also included in this annual sale, so make sure you check out prices on window tinting for your car and home. You won’t be disappointed when the warm summer days return.
5. Workout Gear
Getting in shape is one of the top New Year’s resolutions for people all over the world. Retailers are pretty clued into this major resolution too, which is why workout gear is typically on sale during the month of January. The sale offers a lot of workout clothing, such as track suits, headbands, base layers and running shoes. These items tend to cost a pretty penny on their own, so you might want to grab a few different items in your size and maybe a size or two smaller to help with the motivation process. Clothes aren’t the only thing you should look into though. For starters, there will be huge sales on workout equipment, especially home gyms and treadmills. Weights, workout DVDs and other accessories will also save you quite a bit of money during this month. You should also check out the price on fitness devices that monitor your heart rate, sleep and steps per day. Finally, if you really want to spend some time in the gym this year, then you might want to start looking around for the gym of your dreams because most gyms will be offering discounts for a year’s membership during this month.
6. Early Valentine’s Day Gifts
You might not want to think about another holiday just yet, but the early bird does always get the bird. In this case, if you go ahead and order your Valentine’s Day gifts then you might save a pretty penny. Many stores are already putting out Valentine’s Day items, so you might want to check the prices of these items so you can have a little fun for the big day without spending the money. However, if you truly want to save then you might want to go online and order your gifts. Often, many stores will offer amazing deals on bouquets and chocolates before the Valentine’s Day rush happens. These items can be bought and paid for in advance and later delivered during the big day. This will go ahead and get your planning out of the way, so you don’t have to worry about forgetting your someone special if life gets too busy. Also, you could talk to restaurants to see if you can reserve a table this early, so you won’t have to miss out on a special dinner.
7. Furniture
A lot of companies like to bring out new furniture in February, which like other items on this list, means January is the time to rake in the savings on those items. You should be able to find just about everything you need in regards to furniture on sale during January, which is perfect if you’re planning on remodeling or you have a new home to furnish. Before you spend a small fortune on new furniture, you may want to research the average price of the item, to make sure the deal you’re looking at isn’t just a small reduction. You might also want to shop online to see if there’s any deals that are worth more than local deals. Often, you can get the shipping waived on these items, which will come in handy when you tally your savings.
8. Gift Cards
If you want a great selection on gift card exchanges then now is definitely the time to look around. Since the holidays are over, many people are trading the gift cards they didn’t want for cards they do want, which means there will be a lot more gift cards up for grabs. Also, if you like to buy used gift cards for a lower price then you’ll be happy to know that many of these will be available too. Usually, the website checks to make sure there is a proper balance before selling it to you, but like all purchases like this there is a bit of a risk. Before you choose to buy these items, make sure you do some research on the website. Basic review sites should cover most problems, but running the name of the website through a search engine should also bring up any problems customers have had.
9. Motorcycles
During the winter months, sales on motorcycles tend to drop quite a bit, which means you will be able to get an outstanding deal on a motorcycle. Since no one wants to operate a motorcycle during the icy months, a lot of retailers really have to try hard to make a sale, which will work out in your favor. The best thing about buying a motorcycle is they’re more ecofriendly than your average car. Thus, you may be able to get a tax deduction thanks to the bike. Plus, in most states, you can ride in the carpool lane if you’re on a motorcycle, which will help save money in fuel costs alone. You should always take a safety course and do research before you decide to buy a motorcycle though as if you’re not prepared for one then it might be a waste of money even if it’s a great price.
10. Video Games
Generally, there is a surge in videogames during the holiday season, which can be pretty stressful if you’re a gamer. The games generally begin making an appearance around October and by the time December rolls around there’s too many on the wish list to even count on two hands. Although it may be tempting to buy these games the moment they come out, it’s also wise to let the games wait for a little while. After the holiday season is over, the games usually take a price cut, which will allow you to get them at a more affordable price. Of course, during this time, you’ll also be able to check out some reviews. You might also try renting the game or borrowing it from a friend to see if it’s something you actually want to plan. Often enough, the game simply doesn’t live up to its hype, which will allow you to forget about the extra expense.
The month of January is a great time to spend a little money. These savings are sure to help you leave your home looking and feeling comfortable. Not to mention, it’s the perfect time to stock up on some of the gifts you missed out on during the holidays. With all of the great savings, you’ll feel over the moon about your finances.
