7 Things You Should Never Buy Brand New, According to Finance Experts

When shopping for all things house and home, it can be tempting to head straight towards what’s brand new. The ease of buying online and the assurance of a fresh warranty can be incentive enough to make that one-click purchase. Add to that a constant barrage of advertisements making shiny new things more visible and alluring to the average consumer, and the buying blitz is on. 

However, shopping secondhand is a viable, sustainable, more affordable alternative that is often the better bet. Secondhand and gently used items frequently come in good to excellent condition and are equally as functional as their brand-new counterparts at a fraction of the cost. Moreover, many websites give you the option of buying new or used, with detailed descriptions of the item's condition, so you don’t have to spend hours searching on your local sites. 

Ahead, our finance and money experts offer their feedback on which items you should never buy brand new. 

Kitchen Appliances

It is worthwhile to check out secondhand, discounted options when shopping for kitchen appliances. “Secondhand mixers, blenders, and coffee makers can work just as well as new models, providing savings in the kitchen,” says Shinobu Hindert, author of Investing is Your Superpower. Several high-end kitchen appliances often lose a significant percentage of their original retail after their initial purchase. So if you’re shopping Kitchenaid or Wolf, for example, you can expect to find perfectly suitable used substitutes, getting the same quality and durability at a fraction of the cost. 

Clothing

With clothing waste at an all-time high, there has never been a better time to shop secondhand for your new threads. You can find everything from the latest trends to cherished designer brands at a fraction of the price at online resale shops. Poshmark, Depop, and eBay are all excellent sources for favorite secondhand brands, from Lululemon to vintage Chanel. Similarly, you can locate gorgeous one-of-a-kind garments and high-quality pre-owned designer handbags at local thrift stores and consignment shops. “Thrift stores are treasure troves of gently used, stylish clothing, allowing you to elevate your wardrobe while steering clear of the waste that comes with fast fashion, letting you enjoy luxury without sacrificing style or breaking the bank,” says Hindert.

Books

Especially if you are an avid reader, buying secondhand books is an easy way to save money and minimize waste. Looking for a used option can be the smarter way to go because of the instant depreciation of a book after its initial purchase. Local libraries often hold book sales, and online marketplaces like Thriftbooks, Abebooks, and Amazon are excellent sources for a good deal.

Christine Landis, founder of Peacock Parent Inc., advocates for visiting a used bookstore to show support for local businesses or seeking out the “little free libraries that are popping up in every neighborhood” for something fresh and unexpected to read.

Home Décor and Art

Trendy, brand new décor should be avoided, as it will drop in value as quickly as it falls out of season. Hindert recommends eschewing the big chains and their mass-produced products for thrift stores and estate sales, where you can shop for pieces that add character to your space without the hefty price tag. Online auctions often yield discounted décor from designer retailers and visiting consignment or antique stores might lead you to that perfect couch or timeless painting. Adorning your home with vintage treasures is a win-win. Not only are you infusing your surroundings with a sense of history by repurposing these items, but you can pride yourself on owning unique, one-of-a-kind furnishings and accents built with excellent craftsmanship.

Musical Instruments

Looking into playing a new instrument? Before investing in a shiny new flute or an expensive Steinway, consider trying a secondhand instrument to explore your passion by learning the foundations and mastering the elemental skills. Such used and previously loved instruments abound in perfectly good condition. You will want to cement your interest and commitment to the instrument before going all in. “It’s common for people to pick up a hobby only to realize it’s actually not for them,” says Hindert. Buying used musical instruments not only breathes more life and history into a re-homed item, but it also allows you to enjoy high-quality instruments for lower prices, making music more accessible for all. 

Cars

While the promise of the latest model of your dream car can be intoxicating, this is one item you should never buy brand new. “When it comes to cars, purchasing new often means facing immediate depreciation the moment you drive off the lot,” says Hindert. Your dream car could still be waiting in the wings with just a tiny bit of mileage under its belt. Opting for a gently used vehicle will secure you substantial savings, while still providing you with a reliable ride.

Some Kids' Toys

Toys are easy to find in perfectly acceptable, gently used condition. Not to mention, the time and energy involved in projects like assembling a play kitchen can be conveniently avoided by buying used. “Goodwill is your friend,” says Landis. Purchasing these products secondhand is not only the financially prudent choice but also the environmentally responsible one, as so many new toys are made from plastic and cheaply constructed, Landis adds. Note that in this instance, you will want to shop for items that don't contain broken or loose parts and are in line with modern safety standards. Think Lego blocks, Barbie dolls, wooden puzzles, activity centers, dollhouses, and the like.