Best Time to Buy: Your Guide to Saving on Big-Ticket Items in 2022
Mark your calendar with these times to save.
With rising demand, shutdowns and supply chain issues wreaking havoc, shopping these days can be stressful. Shortages on items such as cars and appliances mean buyers face higher prices and long wait times for deliveries.
As the situation continues to evolve, it’s still smart to keep in mind the best times to buy the things you need. These general guidelines still hold true—just remember to stay up to date on the latest developments that might affect your shopping plans.
Here’s a breakdown of what to buy and when to buy it to help maximize your savings:
Fitness Equipment
January
As more and more people made the transition to home-based workouts—even after gyms reopened—the demand for fitness equipment continues. The good news: Supplies have likely rebounded by now. And since retailers know that the new year is when lots of people resolve to get in shape, this is typically the best time to find sales on dumbbells, yoga mats and more.
Furniture
January and July
Demand for furniture also boomed during the pandemic, as workers set up home offices and homeowners sought to spruce up their surroundings. Materials shortages and supply chain issues are still causing delivery delays, so if the piece you want isn’t on the showroom floor, be prepared to wait. Because furniture companies typically release new products twice a year—in February and August—the best time to buy is usually the month prior, as they’re looking to unload current inventory to make room for new items.
Electronics
January and November
Two of America’s biggest unofficial holidays—football’s biggest game and Black Friday—are great times to update your home theater and move toward a more digital life. Keep in mind that although shortages of electronic components have likely pushed prices higher, you’ll usually find the best sales in these months.
Appliances
April/May, September/October and holiday weekends
New refrigerator models typically hit sales floors in the summer, so look for discounts on last year’s models in April and May. When it comes to other major appliances, because manufacturers usually start shipping their newest models in September and October, look for last year’s products to go on sale then. Home improvement stores also often hold big sales on appliances on holiday weekends such as Presidents Day, Memorial Day, Labor Day and Black Friday. As with furniture, remember to factor in delivery delays that may persist in 2022.
Jewelry
May
Mother’s Day sales are a bit flashier—literally—than most other holidays, with great savings on jewelry for your mom, your spouse or yourself.
Mattresses
May and September
The summer is bookended by discounts on mattresses. Celebrate Memorial Day and Labor Day with some of the year’s best savings on sleep. Just remember that, as with furniture, materials shortages and supply chain issues may still mean delivery delays.
Tools
June
You don’t have to be a father to take advantage of discounts on dad gear. Father’s Day offers one of the best times to buy home improvement necessities.
School/Office Supplies
August
Backpacks, pens, pencils, clothes and more go on sale as everyone gears up to return to school. But even if you don’t have a student heading to class, you can stock up on supplies for your office. Some states help with tax-free holidays as well.
Cars
September and December
The recent computer chip shortage put a halt to car production in 2021, meaning inventory is down and prices are up. With that in mind, dealers may be less likely to offer meaningful discounts on their cars in the coming months. But typically, September is when automakers roll out the new models for the new year, and that is the time to find deals on the current models. (Tip: Cars that are being redesigned or discontinued for the coming year could offer the biggest savings.) And if you can wait just a little longer, December brings the perfect storm of opportunities to save. Dealerships are often looking to meet monthly and yearly sales quotas while also trying to move remaining rides from the previous model year.
Remember that the AAA Auto Buying Program can help you save money any time of year.
Find New and Used CarsHouses
November
Lately, a hot housing market recently has meant stiff competition and higher prices for buyers—no matter what time of year they’re house hunting. But typically, winter is when buyers have the biggest advantage. Most families buy homes in the summer, between school years, so there’s less competition among buyers toward the end of the year. Plus, for tax reasons, sellers may be motivated to offload their investment property before the new year arrives.
AAA Home Loans can save you thousands on your mortgage rates.
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