eBay

www.ebay.com.au

Millions of people sell items on eBay, so the competition is fierce and often there is a great bargain to be had. The great thing about eBay is that you can set a price limit in an auction, so you never have the fear of over–bidding or going beyond your means. Set an upper limit and sit back and see if your bid wins.

A friend of mine bought a stunning antique-style dining table and six wooden chairs for $300. It looks almost new! In the stores, it would have cost them $1500.

If your children are old enough, get them involved by getting them to hone their online research skills and search through ebay for you. They get to use their internet skills for good, not just for Skype, MSN and Facebook! And they can put their two cents' worth in regarding the type of furniture you buy for your home.

Gumtree

www.gumtree.com.au

This is a great site that often has free items that people give away, simply to de-clutter their homes. Many people also cannot be bothered with the selling process, so they are happy to simply get rid of their item. You’d be amazed at what people are willing to give away for free! Ebay also has a similar part on their site, so it’s well worth checking these out. There are definitely great home furnishing opportunities out there.

Friends

Almost everyone has some piece of furniture hanging around their house that they don't use. I have a cupboard and two chairs that I don’t use but don’t want to sell. If a friend asked me to borrow them, I’d be delighted! It would free up my space and give them something that they need for a while until they can afford to buy their own.

My dining table is one such borrowed item. My aunt bought a new one and didn’t want a spare hanging around. I have happily used it for the last five years but have recently bought my own. She doesn’t want it back! So now I can return the favour and pass it on elsewhere for someone else to benefit.