Black Friday is great, but it only comes once a year. What if you could find quality items heavily discounted year-round?

Buying used is an easy way to score great deals without breaking the bank. With resale markets flourishing, there are endless opportunities to get gently used items that are good as new. Whether you’re after a car, furniture, clothing or even exercise equipment, the savings are waiting. Here’s how to take advantage of the thriving resale market and make your budget go further.

Good as New

One of the biggest advantages of buying used is that many items are still in excellent condition. People buy, use and sometimes barely touch things before deciding they no longer need them. This gives you the chance to purchase products that still have a lot of life left but at a fraction of the cost of buying new. Here are some items that can help you save you big when you buy secondhand:

Cars

Buying a brand-new car is expensive, and the minute you drive it off the lot its value drops. A great way to save thousands is to purchase a used car that’s just a few years old. These vehicles are often in excellent condition, have low mileage and come with a much lower price tag compared to new models. Plus, many used cars come with a certified pre-owned option, offering you peace of mind with warranties and inspections. You can save a significant amount of money and still drive off with a car that feels like new.

Furniture

Furnishing a home with brand-new furniture can be a big expense. But used furniture is often just as stylish and functional at a much lower cost. People move, redecorate or simply decide they no longer need a particular piece, giving you the chance to find high-quality furniture at a bargain. Whether it’s a comfy couch or a stylish dining table, secondhand furniture can give your home a fresh look without the hefty price tag. Just be sure to inspect it for any damage, stains or other issues before committing to a purchase.

Clothing

Clothing is another area where buying used can offer substantial savings. From designer brands to vintage finds, secondhand clothing is not only affordable but also often in excellent condition. Thrift stores, online platforms like Poshmark or Depop and consignment shops are full of gently used clothes that look and feel great. Whether you're looking for everyday wear or something special, there’s a treasure trove of options waiting for you.

Exercise Equipment

Big-ticket items like treadmills, ellipticals and weight benches can be found used at prices well below what you'd pay for new. Many people buy these items with good intentions but later realize they don’t have the space or motivation to use them. As a result, you can often score great deals on lightly used exercise equipment. Keep an eye out at garage sales, local gyms and resale sites like Facebook Marketplace.

Textbooks

College textbooks are notoriously expensive. Buying them used is a smart way to save. Many used bookstores, both local and online, sell textbooks at a fraction of the price. You can even resell your books once you’re done with them, recouping some of the costs. Websites like eBay and Amazon are great places to start your search for affordable, used textbooks.

Sporting Goods

Outdoor and sporting gear is another category where buying used can save you a lot of money. Whether you’re into cycling, skiing, camping or hiking, you can find high-quality used gear at a fraction of the cost. Ski equipment, bikes, tents, backpacks and even fishing rods can all be found secondhand in excellent condition.

Many outdoor enthusiasts purchase expensive gear for a season or two and then sell it when they upgrade or decide they no longer need it. Websites like Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace or specialized gear exchanges often have great deals on lightly used items. The best part? Much of this gear is built to last, so you can score top-notch equipment without breaking the bank.

That's Just the Beginning

The examples above are just the tip of the iceberg. From appliances to jewelry to electronics, there’s a whole world of gently used items waiting for you. The possibilities are endless! Plus, buying used not only saves you money but also gives items a second life and helps reduce waste. So next time you're on the hunt for something, consider exploring the wide variety of used options available. You never know what great deals you might find!

More Savings With a Horizon Debit Card

If you have a Horizon debit card, you're in luck! Included with every Horizon debit card is a perk called Debit Purchase Rewards. This program gives you personalized offers in online banking that you can load onto your debit card to save money.

The more you use your debit card, the more personalized your offers will become. To redeem rewards and save, shop at the specified retailer and pay with your Horizon debit card.* There's no limit on the number of rewards you can earn, and it's super easy. You don't even have to sign up.

If you don't have a Horizon debit card, now is a great time to get one. Visit our checking accounts page to find an account that's right for you, or skip ahead to apply online right away.

*Each offer has different specifications for when and where you shop and how much you need to spend. Offers that require an online purchase are clearly specified and may include a redemption code. Be sure to read the offer details to determine how to redeem each offer.