Buy Used, Save Big

By Melissa Maynarich, NEWS 9

Many people are shopping a little smarter these days and trying to save money where they can, but now there is a way to score a deal that has nothing to do with clipping coupons or scouting for that seasonal sale.

Bargain hunting-it's becoming an art form in this economy, but now you can score a deal by skipping new-and going used.

"When times are good, new is cool," said Carl Howe of the Yankee Group. "When times are bad, cheap is chic, and that's really the message that's going on in the retail market now."

While used cars and retooled computers are both really popular, there are also items you wouldn't think of. Prestigious watchmaker Tourneau said its refurbished timepieces are now a top seller.

"There's a lot of value in pre-owned," Andrew Block of Tourneau said. "You can buy a contemporary classic depending on the brand, from about 10 percent less than retail, all the way down to 30 to 40 percent less."

Gamestop reports a 22 percent sales jump, due in part to its used games. Avid gamer Jeremiah Harris says over the years, he's saved thousands on used games and consoles.

"I bought new consoles and then I got smart and started buying used," Harris said. "It's a dramatic...decrease in price."

Howe said buying used typically saves you about 5 to 25 percent, but you have to be a savvy shopper and check out the warranties. Howe said you may get the best protections when you buy directly from the manufacturer.

Retailers often back the manufacturers' warranty or offer their own.

When it comes to the terminology, 'used' and 'pre-owned' are obvious, but experts said 'refurbished' can also mean the items have been discontinued or returned unused and repackaged for sale at a discount.