Lifestyle

How to Save Up for a New Appliance

Published

1 year ago

April 12, 2023

When shopping for a large appliance like a refrigerator or dryer, you likely know it’s best to wait for deals. However, you can’t always time these purchases because you don’t have control over when something breaks. If your oven quits working, you likely need to replace it as soon as you can. Luckily, there are a few ways to make these purchases more affordable, no matter the time of year.

Keep an Emergency Fund Ready

It’s a good idea to have a separate emergency fund for home expenses like new appliances. That way, you won’t have to go into debt to make the purchase, and you won’t need to worry about something costing a little more than you have expected. Look for ways to reduce your monthly expenses so you can start building up your emergency fund. If you have existing student loan debt, refinancing can net you more favorable terms. In addition, cutting the cable cord, cancelling unused gym memberships, and avoid going out to eat are additional ways to save.

Look for Rebates or Offers from the Original Manufacturer

Do some research on brands you would be open to purchasing and then go to each brand’s website to see if they are offering discounts, rebates, or other offers. If they have overstocked a certain model, they may be offering a sale to unload the extra inventory. As you shop around for deals, make sure you take into account the entire cost of the appliance.

You will need the old one hauled away, and you will need the new one delivered and installed. Some stores offer this as part of the purchase, and others charge extra. However, some manufacturers may offer free installation of the appliance as part of their deal, so keep an eye out for these deals, and look for other deals as well as some retailers offer discounts to those who have been in the military.

See if Price Matches are Offered

One of the many things adults should be doing regularly is watching the dollar and finding ways to save in any possible expenditure. Compare retailers’ price match policies. Some stores might match the lowest price of the same appliance at nearby stores. They might even match the lowest price of nearby club stores. Some even offer price matches for a couple of weeks or months after you purchase the appliance, so if it goes on sale the next week, you could get the difference back. Just make sure you read up on the details of what is and is not covered.

Negotiate the Price

Negotiating the price can pay off, especially because many customers do not think to negotiate with the retailer. However, many consumers who do negotiate are successful. Checking prices at nearby retailers can help you negotiate, and if you are buying multiple appliances, you might be able to get a discount on each. You could also ask if they can offer a better price. If they won’t give you a better deal, you might be able to at least get a free delivery and hookup of the new one, and they may be willing to remove the old one for free.

Lifestyle

From Wealth to Fields: A Billionaire’s Commitment to Small Farmers

Published

2 weeks ago

July 11, 2024

Michelle Langton

In recent years, billionaire Stefan Soloviev has transitioned from the world of New York real estate to the fertile farmlands of the American West.

His journey from urban wealth to rural development showcases a unique dedication to revitalizing small farming communities and transforming the agricultural landscape.

A New Vision for Agriculture

Stefan Soloviev, son of the late real estate tycoon Sheldon Solow, has amassed a considerable amount of farmland across Colorado, Kansas, and New Mexico. Soloviev’s agricultural enterprise, Crossroads Agriculture, spans over 400,000 acres, making him one of the largest landowners in the United States.

This substantial investment is not merely a financial venture; it represents a commitment to supporting and empowering small farmers in these regions.

Soloviev’s approach to farming is characterized by his desire to move away from competitive practices that often leave small farmers struggling. Instead, he emphasizes collaboration and sustainability.

By leveraging his resources, Soloviev aims to create a farming environment where smallholders can thrive alongside larger operations. This philosophy is particularly evident in his strategic acquisition of the San Luis & Rio Grande Railroad, a critical transportation link for agricultural products in the region.

Revitalizing Rural Communities

Soloviev’s impact extends beyond farmland acquisition. His purchase of the San Luis & Rio Grande Railroad at a bankruptcy auction for $10.7 million highlights his broader vision for the agricultural sector.

This railroad, previously owned by Iowa Pacific Holdings, connects the San Luis Valley to the national rail network, facilitating the efficient transport of goods and boosting local economies.

The acquisition is seen as a positive development for the San Luis Valley, with Soloviev’s Colorado Pacific Railroad expected to be more community-focused and supportive of local initiatives compared to the previous owners. This includes potential cooperation with local recreational projects, such as the proposed Heart of the Valley Trail, which aims to integrate rail and trail use for community benefit.

Soloviev’s dedication to the region is also reflected in his willingness to work with local stakeholders to address community needs. His approach contrasts with more traditional, profit-driven business models and underscores his commitment to fostering a sustainable and inclusive agricultural ecosystem.

Building a Sustainable Future

Soloviev’s investment in the Colorado Pacific Railroad and the broader agricultural infrastructure is part of a long-term vision to create a more resilient and sustainable farming community. By improving transportation networks and providing support to small farmers, he hopes to mitigate some of the challenges these farmers face, such as market access and transportation costs.

Moreover, Soloviev’s initiatives are seen as a way to preserve and enhance the rural way of life, which is increasingly threatened by industrial farming and urban encroachment. His efforts to balance economic viability with environmental stewardship demonstrate a nuanced understanding of the complexities of modern agriculture.

In conclusion, Stefan Soloviev’s transition from urban real estate mogul to a champion of small farmers is a testament to his innovative and community-oriented approach.

His significant investments in farmland and infrastructure, coupled with a commitment to sustainability and local engagement, are paving the way for a brighter future for small farmers in Colorado and beyond. Through his efforts, Soloviev is not only transforming

the agricultural landscape but also setting a precedent for how wealth and resources can be used to foster positive change in rural communities.