Bartering And Horse Trading (Part Duh)

My wife likes to junk, and many in my family.

She scored a really nice wood basket with needlepoint accents and it was full of needelpoint floss, needles, various tools for needlepoint, two pairs of electric scissors and a bunch of other stuff for a few buxks at a garage sale. She hits the sales usually weekly and comes back with generally good stuff and only spends a few bucks on it. Its only hobby stuff for her or useful things that she will consider.

She found a dripolator coffeemaker at a sale and talked them down to 15 bux (still too much if you ask me), but it's porcelain and in mint shape. It's the cleanest dripolator anyone has seen since they made them. That's our shtf coffee setup. It's like brand new.

I bought a tool box for my cucv chevy wood truck for 15 bux. I grinded off the old paint and did some quick repairs, bought a few cans of cheapie 3 bucks spray paint and have a tool box for my truck. I could have got a nice used box for 100-150 bux. I made my own nice used box.

It goes on forever what you can find if you are looking out for it. The price is always negotiated DOWN. I don't care what it is.

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Originally Posted by MNeagle

City Council members propose $25 fee for garage sales in Dallas

Quote:

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Two Dallas City Council members have proposed charging a $25 fee next year to anyone who wants to have a garage sale in city limits.

City managers have floated the idea of charging $5, as a way to help balance next year's tough budget.

Council members Delia Jasso and Dwaine Caraway upped the ante today in a memo to City Manager Mary Suhm.

"We recommend the fee should be $25," the memo said.

Jasso and Caraway estimate the fee could bring in $500,000 next year, and they recommend the money go toward senior dental services, cultural affairs programs, graffiti removal and animal services.

I'm not sure how they estimated the $500,000, but I think one relevant question is: will the number of garage sales go down significantly if a $25 fee is attached? Will that decrease the revenue estimate?

What do you think?

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http://cityhallblog.dallasnews.com/a...9/post-11.html

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Hi Mneagle. That’s really pathetic; govt wants to charge financially strapped folks for selling their used stuff that they had long ago paid for with hard earned after tax income and sales tax added to boot. What’s next; a tax on sleeping ? How about decibel meters to tax “noise pollution” in every home ? Better not give them any ideas, eh ?

It’s funny that you posted that since Ponce had earlier told me that the govt would try to tax garage sales somehow. Imagine having to drive somewhere, perhaps distant, where you pay $25 for a permit to sell what turns out to be $10 worth of used items. And if you sold $100 worth of items, you would be paying 25% to the govt.

No, no, this garage sale permit thing is an abomination and a pox thrust on the struggling American. And guess who is responsible for making him struggle in the first place. In the second place, the govt wouldn’t need to create these taxes and permits if they were handling the nation’s finances in a responsible manner. Gotta stop here; it makes my blood boil.

But hey, there is a possible solution. Get 25 sellers together and purchase 1 permit and hold it on one person’s property. Nothing wrong with one seller and several “helpers” around. Now let them try to break that up or figure out what is going on. I believe when a private party or govt is pushing some onerous agenda, it is best to resist as well as expose them. Maybe with sarcasm or ridicule. Satire is good too. Robin Williams said, “If they can’t take a fuck, joke ‘em “.

I have been thinking (and hoping) that someone would come up with some protest action that all Americans could do that would be easy and cheap. And the citizens wouldn’t have to leave their home either. I’m not thinking of opening the window and yelling “I’m mad as Hell and I’m not going to take it any more”; that didn’t work in the movie Network and it won’t work in real life either. Something that would make ALL of the politicians stand up and wonder what they can do to stop this nationwide protest.

Something like putting your television on the front porch, pointing it to the street. And for those who don’t want to risk losing their TV, merely turn the TV and point it out the front window. Hell, leave it on 24 hours a day tuned to something like congressional public access.

Also, cease going to the movie theatres and renting movies. That should wake up the Hollywood crowd. You can trade movies between yourselves. Don’t forget to turn the TV around or you’ll be sitting in the front yard in you jammies and bunny slippers. And you surely don’t want you neighbors to get an eyeful of that !

At the same time, get together with your neighbors and have one helluva barbecue. Every night too ! Maybe a pig in the ground. Name it after someone you can’t stand. You know what I mean. Trust me, it will taste all the sweeter as you rip the flesh from the bones.

Topics of discussion ?

A. Wonder how long until “they” respond. Make bets on the calendar dates. Who will win the pool ?
B. List of your demands. You can go bananas here since anything and everything can be on the table. After all, their demands have been pretty crazy, haven’t they ? Now it’s your turn. Let’s see how they like it. Maybe start with term limits. Next, no lawyers in Congress. After that is up to your imagination.
C. Discuss the peace afterwards and how to safeguard it.

And on and on until you, the American citizens, get things moving in the direction you want.

Fasting unto death won’t work; they don’t give a shit about us. They’ll let us starve to death and call us crazy while laughing behind our backs.

Mass protests will be ignored by the mainstream media. Obama just ignored Glenn Beck’s mass protest in Washington.

Violence would be put down with greater violent force. And possibly martial law would be enacted, something they would want anyway.

Voting at the polls ? Don’t make me laugh, with unaccountable electronic voting machines. Besides, we are living in the age of the tyranny of the majority. And the majority wants someone else to pay them to live. And that “someone” is YOU !

Okay, okay; rant off. Even I am getting tired of reading about all that is wrong with the world. When I am out making deals I feel excited but comfortable; I’m in my own little world and it gives me much pleasure.

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I was at a local thrift store recently and got 7 really nice shirts for a buck each. Also got 17 record albums. Four were valued at $50 each, one at $40 a couple at $30 each and a few at $20 each. All in like new condition and for a dime each, it was too good to turn down. Well, unless I would have had to pay in silver dimes. I only look at the catalog prices to tell me of the relative rarity and possibly the desirability of individual albums. Don’t expect to get anything near the prices quoted. I’m not selling; only buying. Maybe some day I will sell some but right now the fun is chasing down interesting vinyl.

While I was picking out records at this thrift store, a gentleman came up and asked if I was a record collector. I said that I pick them up from time to time. He said that he has some records he wants to sell. I asked him how many he has and he replied that he has around 3,000, mostly rock and roll like the Beatles and Rolling Stones. He gave me his number and said to call when we could get together. I’ll let you know how that works out. A deal ain’t a deal until it is done and you are hauling home the goods. If you don’t hold it, you don’t own it; Ponce’s quote especially applies here.

See ? This is what I’m talking about where just getting out there and mingling can sometimes have dramatic results. Not all deals work out; we just have to play the odds. Right now my plate is full with the transmission business and getting prepared for this winter. I wish I had more time to chase the deals full time. I will warn you that it will get in your blood in time and you will always be looking for that next ’fix”. I guess I have become a junk junkie.

By the way, business has been the worst I have seen in 40 years and I ship nationwide. Almost nobody calling for price quotes and no sales for the last 11 weeks. And just yesterday I may have made my first sale. That is, if the customer follows through with what he said. I won’t know for a few days.

A huge supplier of auto cores and parts told me that he was off 80 to 90 percent and that he is losing money each month. How long can such businesses hang on until they go broke ? And how long will it be until business returns ?

If we lose some of these suppliers, what is to happen to the cost of rebuilding anything automotive ? Not to mention the potential for unavailability of parts or ingredients in order to have a finished product. It would be the death of the business process as we know it. And this is also true for other industries as well.

Question is, what would replace the independent automotive rebuild/ remanufacture industry ? The parts departments of the new car dealers ? Have you seen their prices ? You want to talk about double or triple the price ? Talk about inflationary.

I have been reading the writing on the wall for several months. First, there was the parents who would pay for a rebuilt transmission for their sons and daughters. Next came the customers who began asking if I had a used transmission for sale. And finally, the phones stopped ringing. Well, except for all the advertisers, telemarketers, lenders, and wrong numbers.

Money (and credit) have become so hard to come by that customers are buying used transmissions from wrecking yards and from private parties who are parting out their own wrecked cars. Every car parting out ad on Craigslist has everything for sale except the manual transmission. These sell first, even before the ad comes out. And this may be my saving grace. I can repair a transmission with new seals and used parts that will be far superior to what the used transmission market can offer. And I believe I can offer them at the same price.

As a test, I repaired 2 such transmissions in the past year in anticipation of what I am seeing happen now. I was right; it can be done. Darwin was right; the survival of the species does not go to the fastest or strongest but rather to those most adaptable to change. We humans have the capacity to often foresee the future and prepare for the necessary adaptations well in advance.

If money and credit are to continue to be tight, it would be smart to realize that making half the net profit could be just as financially rewarding as in the past. Prices for many things are falling greatly.

And who knows, at the lower profit levels, there may be more than a doubling in sales volume from the old days. Twice the labor for the same pay but the profit’s purchasing power may double. Could be a winner in disguise.

The overview is to be able to pay the bills without going into the hole and therefore protect the nest eggs of preps and PMs. Adapting is the key. I’ve adapted all of my life and have learned to be content with its demands. Actually, it is exciting experiencing change. Like stretching out the muscles of the mind to see how far and well they can take you.

I have also concluded that big ticket item businesses will not return to normal for years; maybe never. Grindingly slow is the new normal and we have to learn to survive under such conditions until our competition goes under and/or buyers get out of debt.

I was fortunate to foresee this coming and have also been fortunate to have been able to financially position myself beforehand. I pay no business rent since I work at home; rent cost is a big killer. And I have no employees like my last business in which I had 12 employees to pay; employee cost is the biggest killer, especially when things are dead. Ponce and I have discussed that the future will include the growth of many cottage industries. Low to no overhead one man operations. Heck, even if I only rebuild a few transmissions per year I will be okay. I’m not Ponce but am trying my best to get as close to his situation as possible.

Gotta go soon to pick up another 500 pounds of fruits and veggies. For the cows and chickens, of course.

Best wishes and JMHO,

Agnut

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Originally Posted by Fortyone

Additionally, I have been thinking of buying a Detroit diesel generator. How much will it consume per day ? Even running it for 2 hours will use 2 gallons of diesel. That’s just to run the freezers and recharge the batteries (that I don’t have yet; or the inverter either). quoted from AgNut


A Detroit diesel of the 71 or 92 series is one of the most inefficient diesels ever made.Originally used in Sherman tanks, they are a two cycle and VERY LOUD. keep the gen head and use a different engine.

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Hi FortyOne. I have since decided to find another type diesel generator than a Detroit diesel. I agree, they are noisy, dirty and inefficient. What initially attracted me to them is that they are simple and will use most any fuel available including biodiesel.

I do have a ThermoKing generator with a 4 cylinder diesel Isuzu engine. I got it for $200 but it may not have the 220 volt output I need. I may decide to sell it to get a 10-12K size unit or even find a 12K generator head and mate it to the Isuzu diesel engine. I just hate to pay so much, being the cheap bastard that I am. And a gas generator is out of the question since the fuel goes bad so quickly. Yeah, I know there are fuel preservatives but the water cooled diesels are built to last so much longer than the gas types.

As for getting better than a gallon per hour fuel consumption, I don’t know if there are any 10-12K diesel units that use a half gallon per hour. If not, maybe modifying my charging time to its best efficiency could compensate. For instance, running the generator for 2 hours at 1 gallon per hour, charging the batteries while using the well pump to refill my water storage tank, running the freezer and doing the laundry all at the same time. And maybe doing this only every three days. This way I would be consuming at a rate of only 2/3 of a gallon per day rather than 2 gallons per day. And if I had some solar panels to help recharge the batteries, I may only need to run the generator every 5 days (the freezer may be a problem here). On a yearly basis that would be 146 gallons per year, a bit less than three 55 gallon drums full. Gotta be adaptable, ya know.

First it would be wise to figure out your electric needs and how you can get them down to a level you can live with. I have shown this type of thinking above. Only then can you know what fuel quantity per day you will need and plan fuel storage accordingly. If fuel became prohibitive, the solar wouldn’t be enough for your heavy load draws but at least you would have lights and small appliances still working.

You might want to look into LED lighting since it draws so little electricity.

Best wishes,

Agnut

My meat man ( the butcher )called me this am, wanted to know how I was doing on meat did I have a freezer full?

Hahah I laughed, he just wants cigars, so I told him I am running low on Filet Minion, Rib eye.

Ok he says, I'll get a box packed for you come on down, Guess I am going trading today!

Tag sales are getting scarce with the cold weather moving in. Here is what I scored today.....


Reed & Barton- Sterling silverware set:
approximately 50 tozs of Sterling
Cost: $30.


Sterling silver shot cups & minigoblets & 2 bottle tags
approximately 12 tozs of Sterling
Cost: $30.


These were not available when I arrived. I ASKED if they had any..... you MUST ask.

Candles. I am finding lots of candles at tag sales. I can get a dozen candles- sticks, box style, cylindrical- all for a dollar. I am stocking up on basic practical stuff that I see cheap.

Yesterday picked up a Wagner cast iron pan for $1. Got an antique HEAVY steel German-made meat cleaver for $10.... just like this one... currently bid up to $70....
http://cgi.ebay.com/F-DICK-98-SCHLIF...66909222127019

Also picked up a box of 1000 galvanized finishing nails and rappeling gloves for $5.

There are often boxes of FREE stuff at these sales. I have gotten things like exercise weights, door knobs, stainless steel sinks.

Hey Spec, what do you mean by tag sales?

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Originally Posted by Rip Van Winkle

Hey Spec, what do you mean by tag sales?

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tag sale

noun
A sale of used household belongings, with prices typically marked on labels affixed to the items.

http://www.yourdictionary.com/tag-sale

Garage sale/estate sale.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Rip Van Winkle

Hey Spec, what do you mean by tag sales?

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Same as garage sales. People sell their household junk - sometimes junk and sometimes brand new stuff- for pennies on the dollar.

I have much better success at these than the flea markets. In CT the flea markets are havens of professionals who typically know what values are and want top dollar. At some of the flea markets you can encounter non-professional individuals who might give up a trick or two... but most I find are hardened veterans.

agnut, any news?

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Mouse

My wife likes to junk, and many in my family.

She scored a really nice wood basket with needlepoint accents and it was full of needelpoint floss, needles, various tools for needlepoint, two pairs of electric scissors and a bunch of other stuff for a few buxks at a garage sale. She hits the sales usually weekly and comes back with generally good stuff and only spends a few bucks on it. Its only hobby stuff for her or useful things that she will consider.

She found a dripolator coffeemaker at a sale and talked them down to 15 bux (still too much if you ask me), but it's porcelain and in mint shape. It's the cleanest dripolator anyone has seen since they made them. That's our shtf coffee setup. It's like brand new.

I bought a tool box for my cucv chevy wood truck for 15 bux. I grinded off the old paint and did some quick repairs, bought a few cans of cheapie 3 bucks spray paint and have a tool box for my truck. I could have got a nice used box for 100-150 bux. I made my own nice used box.

It goes on forever what you can find if you are looking out for it. The price is always negotiated DOWN. I don't care what it is.

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Hi Mouse. I must apologize for having not posted and responded for so long. I don’t really have an excuse. I have thought about posting a hundred times but every time either something happens that needs attention or I get the wind knocked out of my sails. I wonder if others are having the same difficulty at this time in history. Anyhow, I’m Baaack !

It sounds like you have a great wife and family there; with so many barterer and horse traders you all will be able to make your dollars stretch to the breaking point. I suggest that you each put together a list of your wants and needs. And share copies to each other. This way, when any one of you are out there on the hunt you will be the eyes and ears for each other - thus multiplying the odds of finding what you need. I even pay a finder’s fee for some items; this has made me deals and money that I otherwise would not have ever known about.

The sewing and knitting items that your wife found at garage sale prices would have cost many times more if she had bought them new. Besides saving a load of after tax money you had earned, she also bought these items with no state sales tax. And something that few consider is how your wife’s (and your) lives were enriched since she probably would haven’t bought these items if she had to have paid full retail. I bet momma was happy and you know the old saying “If momma ain’t happy, ain’t nobody happy”.

I can look all around my place and see items that I had found for practically nothing that I would have never bought new. Some we can use and some will be resold at a profit later. It’s all good. Remember what Ponce said about living in Cuba where many, many things cannot be bought at any price. Ponce believes that we will become like Cuba in time and that we should have multiples of things we take for granted such as coffee machines, toasters, drills, etc. I listen to Ponce and ACT on his wisdom and have accumulated backup items for the years to come. I just hope it will not be for 50 years like in Cuba.

Good score on the $15 toolbox. New it would have been hundreds of dollars, used it would have been $100-150 as you wrote, but you practically stole it for $15 ! As I have written through the years, we as a society are moving from form to function. Form is new, modern and most expensive while function is at the lowest price we can pay for the same utility of the item.

Wouldn’t it be interesting if we all were to calculate the savings by buying used items and then invest that savings into physical silver ? Could amount to a life’s savings in time. But this doesn’t usually happen since we all are pinching pennies and don’t have discretionary money for long term investments.

A few days ago I received a call from a seller who I had put on the back burner. It was for a large quantity of vinyl records. I wrote of this in post #41 on Sept 29 when I had first met this seller. So it has been two and a half months until I completed the deal. Turns out, he had “only” 1,400 records. I bought them for a total of $100. There were about 25 half speed master recordings. The last one I bought 15 years ago cost me $31 new. So I guess I got more that what I paid for in just those 25 records. The rest were a lifetime collection of rock and roll starting in the mid 1960s. Some really great stuff.

And to top that, he sold me a laser guided Technics turntable where the person never touches the tone arm; it is automatic. This accounts for why almost all of the records had no scratches on them. Oh, by the way, he sold me the turntable for $5 !

I asked the all important question, “What else have you got for sale ? He had about 60 Cds for $5; I bought them, not knowing what they were and later found about 15 I put aside for my own listening.. The rest I may give away or sell at a garage sale. Hey, I’m a packrat and can’t help myself.

He asked if I was interested in antiques and then pulled out a box full of antique jewelry and art objects. Some beautiful jade and ivory pieces. I still haven’t valued them all. A carved ivory bracelet like mine was on Ebay for $350 and some of the jade pieces were surprisingly expensive from what I could gather from Ebay and retail prices. The whole box cost me $30 !

This seller has lots more he wants to get rid of including a huge chest full of old baseball cards going back to the days of Babe Ruth and earlier. He said that they are in protective individual packaging. I know almost nothing about baseball cards and could lose my ass so I need to do some research before going into this. The whole chest may cost a couple of thousand dollars and I’m not sure that I want to risk this much capital. I’ve done this in the past and always come out smelling like roses but just one big slipup can destroy a year’s bargain hunting profits. My hesitance is that baseball cards are a hobby and the economy is bad and fragile and could break down without warning. So who would want baseball cards after a market crash ? Well, if I could get the lot cheap and sell off enough cards to recoup my initial investment within short order, it may be worth the risk.

And who knows; maybe I won’t even be able to make this baseball card deal in the future. This is why I always have my eyes and ears open for deals to make. Some fall through and some come in big winners but I try to always have some deals in the works.

Best wishes,

Agnut


The Coinage Act of April 2, 1792
(1 Stat. 246)
Statute I.
April 2, 1792 Chapter XVI.–An Act Establishing a Mint, and regulating the coins of the United States.
Section 19. And be it further enacted, That if any of the gold or silver coins which shall be struck or coined at the said mint shall be debased or made worse as to the proportion of the fine gold or fine silver therein contained, or shall be of less weight or value than the same out to be pursuant to the directions of this act, through the default or with the connivance of any of the officers or persons who shall be employed at the said mint, for the purpose of profit or gain, or otherwise with a fraudulent intent, and if any of the said officers or persons shall embezzle any of the metals which shall at any time be committed to their charge for the purpose of being coined, or any of the coins which shall be struck or coined at the said mint, every such officer or person who shall commit any or either of the said offenses, shall be deemed guilty of felony, and shall suffer death.

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Originally Posted by zap

My meat man ( the butcher )called me this am, wanted to know how I was doing on meat did I have a freezer full?

Hahah I laughed, he just wants cigars, so I told him I am running low on Filet Minion, Rib eye.

Ok he says, I'll get a box packed for you come on down, Guess I am going trading today!

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Hi Zap. I guess you could say that in bartering and horse trading, you get right to the meat of the matter. Last summer I tried trading boxes of Iowa beef for a transmission rebuild but so far, no cigar. But you never know, the seller may need my services and I have kept his phone number.

I cannot overemphasize the importance of keeping records and phone numbers for future networking. In my last post I wrote of waiting two and a half months for a record deal. If I hadn’t called him occasionally (bordering on pestering, actually), I would have missed the deal. And future deals with him. Only time will tell as to how big this one connection will turn out. The uncertainty in deal making can be a positive in that so many folks avoid uncertainty like the plague; therefore there is little competition.

It is oxymoronic (especially the moron part) that most folks will not venture forth into what they perceive as the unknown/uncertainty of taking a risk when the reality is that Not taking a risk is a far, far greater potential loss than to have taken the risk/venture in itself. Because only by expanding our horizons can we see the broader picture and grow to become more that we were in the past.

Best wishes,

Agnut

Have been doing well on the bartering aspect as well. We gave out a lot of extra garden produce in the summer and have been giving extra eggs to the neighbors (There is about....5 neighbors within half-mile). We aren't looking for paybacks in particular, but more to judge the basic state of the neighbors. We got thank-you's on almost all of the produce. We started getting eggs from our chickens, more than we could use by far, and started just sending some around the immediate area.

It's all good. We keep sending out eggs to a few of the neighbors and with the veggies and so-forth all the sudden we have helpers if we need to do something, we have some regular egg customers that trade in beef or future favors with brush-hogging or wood cutting or whatever.

We are newbs at this stuff and people are trading eggs and veggies and labor favors. All the other stuff will fit right in there - you need a tool? Your stove has a crack in it? You need your truck fixed? Around here, at least real close around here, about 50% is let's put in and work together, trade together, and more I am realizing these folks are thinking defending together.

Bartering and horse trading is a very worthwhile outlet. It might not make sense to the city people, but out here people barter and trade all the time for everything, and it's just a way of living. People will give you stuff you need and you give them stuff, and there aren't really books kept officially, it's just an arm's length and moral view - if I took 5 dozen eggs from you this month should I give you how much ground beef or steak, or how much work helping you do whatever - and it's all just time and materials and in fantasy land this shit works. It's a value based, relatively fair, we keep some karma account of what we owe eachother and it balances out.

Not to say you shouldn't rape on garage sales, but the whole trading network with your neighbors.....I would have never imagined until I moved out of the cities. It's a tough survival out in the woods, but there are rewards in terms of how things work.

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Originally Posted by agnut

It sounds like you have a great wife and family there; with so many barterer and horse traders you all will be able to make your dollars stretch to the breaking point. I suggest that you each put together a list of your wants and needs. And share copies to each other. This way, when any one of you are out there on the hunt you will be the eyes and ears for each other - thus multiplying the odds of finding what you need. I even pay a finder’s fee for some items; this has made me deals and money that I otherwise would not have ever known about.

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Hi, mouse's wife here. This point is a good one. I learned from a Philipino friend to always keep a list of items that are needed and any measurements in my purse at all times. Because you never know when you come across something that you could use but you don't know the size you need or etc. We were always hitting up sales or the local outdoor fleamarket (oh how I miss that place).

Also, let others know what you might be looking for, especially if they do alot more garagesaling than you do. My mom loooooves to go to estate sales and garage sales. And she is the expert bargain hunter. I tell her what I'm looking for and in about a month she has one in excellent shape for pennies on the dollar. Bless her soul, she usually just gives it to me and won't let me pay her for it because it cost her so little. Alot of the time, I just mention to her what I've been wanting and she'll say "Well, hunny, I have one of those in storage. Let me get it for you!" I have been wanting a stand mixer. I said something to her about it. She apparently got one years ago at a garage sale for $5. Albeit, it's about 30 years old but she's used it many times and it works like a charm! It's mine the next time I see her ;) I wish everyone could be blessed with a mom like her. She has been an inspiration and the best mom ever.

Spectrism, that silverware and goblets you got was an incredible deal. I mean incredibly good; not unbelievable. These great deals do show up from time to time; the key is that we barterer and horse traders HAVE to get out there and see what is being offered. Thanks for the photos and post. The more we all contribute to this thread, the more viewers will read and see such fantastic deals can be made. I mean fantastically good; not a fantasy. HaHa

Now in your second post you mentioned candles. I too am looking for candles; the bigger the better. Doesn’t matter if they are used or not; the weight of the wax in the candle is my focus. Why ? Well that wax may be melted down later to make candles and you never know, candles and candle wax may become hard to come by. Anybody know what the price is for a pound of candle wax ?It is like when my grandmother collected scraps of cloth and balls of string. She lived through the last depression and the times must have been so scarring/dramatic that for the rest of her life she continued this and other frugalities.

Through the many conversations with Ponce I have learned a lot and have begun to collect things in multiples that I will need or have for sale when they become expensive or otherwise unavailable. Put on a scale, they would weigh over a ton by now and I am still picking up whatever I can. Fortunately, I have the room to do this with a large barn and outbuildings.

Your Wagner cast iron fry pan was a bargain. Check on Ebay for relative selling prices. I also have several types of cast iron pieces and am still looking for more. That German meat cleaver would come in handy for processing beef and pork; also good for a home defense weapon (although I prefer a short machete, honed like a razor).

Keep collecting the nails, especially the 40 and 50 pound boxes like Home Depot sells. I have gotten several boxes for from $1 to $3 a box at garage sales. Ponce has told me that a straight nail in Cuba is worth a dollar because they are so scarce. And forget buying sheets of plywood at any price; its just not available.

The first place I go to when garage sailing is the free stuff. Copper, brass, aluminum, wiring and lots more. This free stuff will often pay for your gas to get there in the first place.

Best wishes,

Agnut

P.S. Here’s an article about bartering; it seems to be in the process of being more written about as this so called economy unwinds.

In a Tight Holiday Season, Some Turn to Barter


http://www.nytimes.com/2010/12/23/sc....html?_r=2&hpw

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Originally Posted by Mouse

Have been doing well on the bartering aspect as well. We gave out a lot of extra garden produce in the summer and have been giving extra eggs to the neighbors (There is about....5 neighbors within half-mile). We aren't looking for paybacks in particular, but more to judge the basic state of the neighbors. We got thank-you's on almost all of the produce. We started getting eggs from our chickens, more than we could use by far, and started just sending some around the immediate area.

It's all good. We keep sending out eggs to a few of the neighbors and with the veggies and so-forth all the sudden we have helpers if we need to do something, we have some regular egg customers that trade in beef or future favors with brush-hogging or wood cutting or whatever.

We are newbs at this stuff and people are trading eggs and veggies and labor favors. All the other stuff will fit right in there - you need a tool? Your stove has a crack in it? You need your truck fixed? Around here, at least real close around here, about 50% is let's put in and work together, trade together, and more I am realizing these folks are thinking defending together.

Bartering and horse trading is a very worthwhile outlet. It might not make sense to the city people, but out here people barter and trade all the time for everything, and it's just a way of living. People will give you stuff you need and you give them stuff, and there aren't really books kept officially, it's just an arm's length and moral view - if I took 5 dozen eggs from you this month should I give you how much ground beef or steak, or how much work helping you do whatever - and it's all just time and materials and in fantasy land this sh*t works. It's a value based, relatively fair, we keep some karma account of what we owe eachother and it balances out.

Not to say you shouldn't rape on garage sales, but the whole trading network with your neighbors.....I would have never imagined until I moved out of the cities. It's a tough survival out in the woods, but there are rewards in terms of how things work.

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Hi Mouse; your generosity with your neighbors pays off in many ways. We do the same thing here with all of the fruits and vegetables we pick up from the local supermarket. Yesterday we got 26 boxes and a friend took 12 boxes for his church members last night. He will return what he can’t give away for our beefalo and chickens. It was totally unexpected but several deals have come our way as a direct result of this. I have written about generosity before as a part of bartering and horse trading. I know you don’t expect paybacks but that seems to be the way it works. Don’t refuse their returning favors; they need to return your generosity in order to sort of “balance the books” in their eyes. What goes around comes around, eh ?

In the last couple of years I have been seeing sellers advertising that they will take something of value from the buyer. Tools, guns, antiques, etc. Just another sign of the times we are in (and heading into). With the skills and type of neighbors you have, you and your family should be able to weather and even prosper in hard times. I feel much safer living in the country as I’m sure you would agree. I cannot imagine what city life would be like after a collapse what with the gangs, ghettoes, law enforcement, food delivery, etc.

Always remember that not everyone suffered in the last depression. Having needed work skills as well as bartering skills will carry you through most any adversities.

As for “raping and pillaging” at garage sales, I have long ago written about this. It is better than buying at a store because there is no sales tax, used items are a mere fraction of their new price, prices are negotiable, lots of unexpected surprises, and more. Deals are consummated in a framework of free will with no coercion as prices are negotiated. If the seller will not sell at a particular price, the counteroffer is next in the buyer‘s court. And so on until an agreement is made. It may seem that you as the buyer “skinned the seller” and made off with a screaming steal. But have you considered what the seller got out of this deal ? Who knows if the seller really needed the money or the item you had that you were bartering with ? Theoretically since there is no coercion and free will agreement, there should be no anger or resentment. Of course, as long as the goods traded were as advertised. No deception, lies or misrepresentations.

Trading with your neighbors is somewhat different than buying at a garage or estate sale. Your neighbors are like extended family. Trading with neighbors is less cut and dried and generosity in what you give in the deal is a reflection of you character and regard for them. It can be a beautiful thing which cements a community together.

Best wishes,

Agnut

P.P. Mouse, I will respond to your wife’s post as soon as time permits (you lucky son of a gun).

Great advice Agnut.

Mouse- I like the soft touch and summary Agnut gave and that you are using. Neighbors are like friends within the walls of the castle that you all may need to defend together. That is not the place to strike the best bargains but rather an easy exchange of value.

In yard sales, you are shopping among strangers (mostly) and for all you know, the item that they sell to you for $10 they may have bought last week for $5. I like to be a complete unknown when I buy- whether its silver, supplies or ammo.

In the neighborhood, you share your capabilities in a more communal cooperation. If you have reasonable neighbors, you have much wealth there.

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Originally Posted by agnut

Trading with your neighbors is somewhat different than buying at a garage or estate sale. Your neighbors are like extended family. Trading with neighbors is less cut and dried and generosity in what you give in the deal is a reflection of you character and regard for them. It can be a beautiful thing which cements a community together.

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Treat everyone as your neighbor.

:oo-->

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Originally Posted by Book

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Originally Posted by agnut

Trading with your neighbors is somewhat different than buying at a garage or estate sale. Your neighbors are like extended family. Trading with neighbors is less cut and dried and generosity in what you give in the deal is a reflection of you character and regard for them. It can be a beautiful thing which cements a community together.

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Treat everyone as your neighbor.

:oo-->

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While that sounds good, I firmly believe that some people you educate and some you don't. When someone wants to sell me a $300 tool for $10, I don't always tell them that they should ask more. I give them $10 and say thankyou. If it is a nearby neighbor or family, I ask why they are selling.

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Originally Posted by Spectrism

When someone wants to sell me a $300 tool for $10, I don't always tell them that they should ask more. I give them $10 and say thank you.

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Mouse summarized it best:

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Originally Posted by Mouse

...we keep some karma account of what we owe each other and it balances out.

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How to Find the Hidden Cash in Your Attic


As certainly as your kids will wake up at 5 a.m. on Christmas, sometime during your annual holiday pilgrimage home, your mother will say, "I do wish you'd go through those boxes in the attic." Maybe this year, you shouldn't fight her. In fact, help her sell all that stuff -- it could be lucrative.

With thrifty consumers on the lookout for quality used goods, they're hitting estate sales -- and spending more money. Bargain hunters are spending about 15 to 25% more at estate sales now, compared to a year ago, estimates Caring Transitions, a company that manages estate sales and relocation around the country. Nationwide Estate Sales, a similar company, pegs the increase at around 10 to 15%, or more. Buyers are paying more per item, says John Buckles, president of Caring Transitions, and if they have to return to collect their first purchase, they often buy more. "We hadn't really seen that before," he said.

Good timing. And not just because it's family pilgrimage time. There are 2.1 million baby boomers with a house on the market today, according to the National Association of Realtors, making up 40% of all home sellers. Many are selling a family home in favor of smaller, more manageable abodes -- which means they have years worth of furniture, books, games and knick-knacks to divest.

Of course, it can be hard to tell what's worth the effort, and unless your childhood home was a trove of fine art and rare books, this process won't make you rich. Consider: Even the prized possessions presented on PBS' "Antiques Roadshow" are typically valued at less than $500, says Marsha Bemko, executive producer of the show. And many of the items that were hot a few years ago -- like shabby chic furniture and Beanie Babies -- won't fetch the kind of cash they once commanded. Still, done properly, an estate sale could cover the cost of a move and then some: A typical sale might yield up to $7,000, says Lori Tucci, an appraiser at Los-Angeles-based Estate Sale Angels.

SmartMoney asked the experts how down-sizers can make the most money -- when they should bargain hard, when they should take the best offer they can get, and what items to give away. Here's what we found in four popular categories:

Furniture

Bargain hard: Mid-century modern furniture from the '50s and '60s is especially popular, says Tucci. A mid-century modern buffet that sold for $75 or $100 earlier this decade, for example, could now sell for $300 to $400, adds Christine Acosta, who co-founded Key Estate Sales, a Chicago-based estate sale company, with her husband.

Take the best offer: Everyday furniture like couches, chairs and coffee tables may sell, especially if the pieces are light wood, aren't chunky and less than five years old. A couch in good condition might fetch a few hundred dollars through a site like Craigslist -- more if its leather.

Free with purchase: Wall-mounted televisions have rendered most entertainment centers obsolete, and mattresses and bedding have never sold well, experts agree. And clunky, dark-wood pieces like traditional dining and bedroom sets just aren't in style right now.

Clothing

Bargain hard: Expect high prices for couture brands like Chanel and Gucci - especially vintage pieces -- as well as other high-quality vintage from the 40s and 60s. Buyers have also been snapping up finely made vintage fur capes this season, which can fetch up to $500, says Lauren Houdlett, founder of accessories label Fat Baby Deer.

Take the best offer: Even if your pieces don't meet the quality standards of an exacting vintage connoisseur, clothing in good condition from retro-hip eras like the '40s, '60s, or '80s will still sell, says Brian Elenson, owner of 2MuchStuff4Me, a New York-based estate- and garage-sale company. And Native-American style pieces are popular too, Houdlett says -- for now.

Free with purchase: Mass-produced items from large chain stores like GAP or L.L. Bean are usually destined for Goodwill, or the smock-box at a local school. Same goes for anything heavily stained, sweatshirts, or sweatpants.

Books and Records

Bargain hard: If you have first- or limited-edition books, or copies signed by the author, have them appraised before you put them on a table with the Prince of Tides. Something like a limited edition, leather-bound book of Tennessee Williams plays could bring in hundreds, as can leather-bound series, especially Franklin Library books -- the company produced collector-edition books, often of classics. For LPs, look for things like more obscure Rolling Stones and Beatles records in their original sleeve and un-scratched, says Tucci. You could sell one of these for about $500.

Take the best offer: Individual leather-bound books, especially of the classics, are often worth your time to sell. So are LPs by jazz greats or by bands that were popular in the 60s, as long as they're in good condition and in their original sleeve.

Free with purchase: Most paperbacks fetch about a dollar or less and mass-produced hardbacks sell for a few bucks -- if they're not damaged. LPs that are heavily scratched or aren't in their original sleeve likely won't get more than a few bucks, if anything. Your old cassettes and CDs are a tough sell these days too, as digital music downloads have taken off.

Collectibles

Bargain hard: Porcelain dolls, tin toys made between the '20s and '40s, and many toys popular with the baby boomers -- a complete Lionel train set, say, or Mattel's Herman Munster doll -- can be lucrative, says Acosta. Also hot: Vintage movie posters; coin collections, ; and vintage cameras in good condition made by companies like Carl Zeiss and Leica from the turn of the century until aboutthe 1970s.

Take the best offer: Even baby boomer toys in imperfect condition are worth selling, as are complete coin collections, especially those that feature gold coins even those that aren't especially rare, because of their nostalgia factor. Contemporary art is popular right now, as is local art, so a painting that features an iconic building or landmark in your community may sell well in your area.

Free with purchase: Buyers don't care much for most collectors plates with dates -- the kind where you'd get a plate each month in the mail with a date on it -- especially if the collection is incomplete, says Tucci. And the kitsch bloom has worn off velvet paintings or 80s pastel, floral and landscape paintings and prints.

And Don't Forget About ...

Family snapshots and video: Stock photography and film companies may buy home movies -- 8mm, super-8mm and 16mm versions -- and photos that include an iconic event or a famous person -- even if your grandma is in the photo, too. "You can sometimes make hundreds of dollars from these things," says Tucci.

Silverware and china: With the price of silver at historic levels, sterling silver flatware is extra valuable right now. But "even silver-plate and stainless flatware will sell simply because it is an item that everyone can use," says Acosta says. Most silver-plate flatware sets sell for $40 to $75; sterling flatware sets for $500 to $1200 or more.

Items from the garage: Tools sell particularly well, says Elenson, because they're easy for buyers to carry home and pricey when purchased new. Old bicycles are in high demand, and that old three-speed cruiser in particular: In good condition, you could sell it for $100 or more.

link


especially those that feature gold coins Gee, you think??

Bad advice in that last one. That market does not exist around me.

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Silverware and china: With the price of silver at historic levels, sterling silver flatware is extra valuable right now. But "even silver-plate and stainless flatware will sell simply because it is an item that everyone can use," says Acosta says. Most silver-plate flatware sets sell for $40 to $75; sterling flatware sets for $500 to $1200 or more.

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Plated silver is practically thrown away. Some of it has copper underneath so I value those by copper weight. Some is nickel. If someone is asking full price of sterling, I am probably not going to buy.

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Items from the garage: Tools sell particularly well, says Elenson, because they're easy for buyers to carry home and pricey when purchased new. Old bicycles are in high demand, and that old three-speed cruiser in particular: In good condition, you could sell it for $100 or more.

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I find 10 & 15 speed bikes in excellent condition for $40. Tools are real steal deals... 10% of new retail cost.

Ok Agnut,

lots of good deals and interesting finds since the last time i checked in with you! :o

For starters i just had my first kid, born last week. I made a list of everything i think she will need for the next 3 years and went garage sailing this past summer before she was born. My wife and i made a game out of it. I cleaned this lady out of 64 cloth diapers and inserts for $100, didnt even bargain as it was already a good deal. Dont know if you realize these cloth diapers are about $15-$20 a piece. It would cost me over $1200 a year just for disposables. Bought her a nice used crib 3 years old for $40, checked it at babiesrus and they still sell the same model for $250. Also picked up a nice all in one car seat and stroller for $40, sells at cosco for $300. spent about another $50 on cloths that will last her until the age of three. Baby items are so abundant and cheep at garage sales i dont know why more people dont take advantage. My wife made a bunch of washable rags from old shirts, we also make are own spray to clean her ass. My wifes milk came in so i dont have to worry about food for at least a year. Our goal is to spend as little on "things" for her as possible, this will allow us to continue to save 50%-60% of our income.

Here are my thoughts on this. I have noticed a lot of first time parents with brand new everything, this is where pride comes into play. My kid is better than your kid, BS! My child will not remember the gucci she wore at the age of 2 or 3, however she will remember the good times, and good times she will have.

Over the years, i have found the best way to garage sale for the home is to make a list of things you need on a weekly or monthly bases. When the weekend roles around search craigslist for the specific items that you are looking for instead of hitting random sales. Like pellets for the winter, i always try to buy as many as i can in the summer and often get them for $2 a bag, thats half off. At times i have even found food like lentils ect.. If you are determined enough, almost all of ones shopping can be done like this. We live in a convenience based world, take a little convenience out and you can save lots of $$$$

Good to see your around!

Cheers

Yeah I never understood why ppl would buy brand new anything for babies. I used to laugh when my science teacher in HS would buy little Air Jordans for his 2 month old. Then he would have to buy new ones in a few months when he grew out of the old ones. Some ppl have more money than they know what to do with.

Near our home in L.A. there was a second-hand baby/child store. All things were for kids 0 - 5y/o. It was in a pretty nice neighborhood. There were brand new cribs and nursery furniture for less than $50! I always thought, if we had gotten pregnant while living there, I'd be set as far as having to buy anything for the baby or it's room. That place was awesome! LOTS of new stuff for cheeeap.... Like garagesale cheap. They even had nice maternity clothes for the mom!

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Originally Posted by muffin

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Originally Posted by agnut

It sounds like you have a great wife and family there; with so many barterer and horse traders you all will be able to make your dollars stretch to the breaking point. I suggest that you each put together a list of your wants and needs. And share copies to each other. This way, when any one of you are out there on the hunt you will be the eyes and ears for each other - thus multiplying the odds of finding what you need. I even pay a finder’s fee for some items; this has made me deals and money that I otherwise would not have ever known about.

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Hi, mouse's wife here. This point is a good one. I learned from a Philipino friend to always keep a list of items that are needed and any measurements in my purse at all times. Because you never know when you come across something that you could use but you don't know the size you need or etc. We were always hitting up sales or the local outdoor fleamarket (oh how I miss that place).

Also, let others know what you might be looking for, especially if they do alot more garagesaling than you do. My mom loooooves to go to estate sales and garage sales. And she is the expert bargain hunter. I tell her what I'm looking for and in about a month she has one in excellent shape for pennies on the dollar. Bless her soul, she usually just gives it to me and won't let me pay her for it because it cost her so little. Alot of the time, I just mention to her what I've been wanting and she'll say "Well, hunny, I have one of those in storage. Let me get it for you!" I have been wanting a stand mixer. I said something to her about it. She apparently got one years ago at a garage sale for $5. Albeit, it's about 30 years old but she's used it many times and it works like a charm! It's mine the next time I see her ;) I wish everyone could be blessed with a mom like her. She has been an inspiration and the best mom ever.

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Hi muffin and welcome. You and Mouse are the first husband wife team here on this thread. A force to be reckoned with when swooping down on a garage or estate sale. I think that a husband wife team who garage and estate sale is one of the best things to cement a relationship. Always something happening new and unexpected, so that the many years of marriage are kept alive and vibrant. Not everything but just another facet of the gem of a brilliant marriage. Boy, I am getting to wax poetical here. Better stop before members label me a “metrosexual”. HaHa

Good idea on the measurements list. I take a 6 foot tape measure with me as well as a magnifying glass for reading small words like “sterling silver” or “14 K”.

Like you I also have a list of things that my friends and family are looking for. A few months ago my sister said that she wanted an entryway bench for putting on and taking off shoes. Can you believe that the very next time I was out garage sailing, a short church pew showed up. It was made of solid hardwood and in perfect condition (no hearts and initials carved into it). The seller wanted $150; I offered $50 and he didn’t even haggle but accepted my offer. I took it over to my sister’s house and she was (and still is) thrilled with it.

I believe that there is more to this deal making than meets the eye, much more valuable than the deal itself. Sure, my sister got a bench that she probably otherwise would have not found. That’s a given but every time she looks at that bench she may think of me and my helping her attain a desire. Can you put a value on helping another ? Of course you can; but the heart doesn’t measure in dollars and cents. The heart measures in care and love shared.

I wrote of this in my last post :

“Trading with your neighbors is somewhat different than buying at a garage or estate sale. Your neighbors are like extended family. Trading with neighbors is less cut and dried and generosity in what you give in the deal is a reflection of you character and regard for them. It can be a beautiful thing which cements a community together. “

Life is chock full of uncertainties; to solve some of these uncertainties for others is one of the most satisfying activities we can do. What goes around comes around. I don’t expect rewards in return; the act of helping others is its own reward. However, don’t be surprised when you do receive wonderful things coming around to you ! That’s just the way it works as I’ve discovered. This is probably the greatest benefit of bartering and horse trading. Sure, I write of the deals I make but this is only to illustrate the fabulous (not gay here) amounts of money saved and to encourage others to do likewise.

Folks who a become deeply immersed in bartering and horse trading should take full advantage of this looking for items for friends and family. For example, a friend’s favorite actor is Jack Nicholson and his favorite movie is “The Shining”. Several months ago I was out garage sailing and spotted a hardbound edition of The Shining; I got it for 50 cents. My friend was happily surprised; it made my day. So what is 50 cents in the whole scheme of life ? It’s like getting two bargains at the same time ! HaHa

When I reflect on my past years of dealings, the ones I remember best are the ones where I made someone happy. Not only friends or family but also those who I bought from and sold to. As I have written in the past, bartering and horse trading is a way of life. My hope is that others will understand the fullness of it and become as pleased with it as I have.

Muffin, sounds like your mom has been doing the above for some time. Shows heart and caring for you, doesn’t it ? And that can’t be quantified or bought with mere money.

I have made some deals since I last posted and will write of them soon. To me, its like Christmas morning happening throughout the year.

Best wishes,

Agnut

P.S. I like your avatar. I could spin you a yarn but I’m sure your husband surely wouldn’t want to trade it for his tools.

Children were what parents watched before there was television.
agnut

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Originally Posted by Spectrism

Great advice Agnut.

Mouse- I like the soft touch and summary Agnut gave and that you are using. Neighbors are like friends within the walls of the castle that you all may need to defend together. That is not the place to strike the best bargains but rather an easy exchange of value.

In yard sales, you are shopping among strangers (mostly) and for all you know, the item that they sell to you for $10 they may have bought last week for $5. I like to be a complete unknown when I buy- whether its silver, supplies or ammo.

In the neighborhood, you share your capabilities in a more communal cooperation. If you have reasonable neighbors, you have much wealth there.

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Hi spectrism, I responded to muffin about these personal relationships and how the “profits” are different than dealing with strangers.

As an aside, here’s the year 2010 record precious metal performance as posted by Vronsky of the Gold-Eagle website :

Palladium.......................+96%
Silver..........................+83%
Gold............................+30%
Platinum........................+20%
Dow Stocks Index................+11%

“Expect something similar in 2011.”
Vronsky

I have been thinking about the great rise in silver spot prices and what it means for us who hold physical silver.

Should we sell some of our silver now that it has increased so much lately ?

Perhaps a flagon of Shakespeare would set a pace for our consideration :

To be, or not to be: that is the question:
Whether 'tis nobler in the mind to suffer
The slings and arrows of outrageous fortune,
Or to take arms against a sea of troubles,
And by opposing end them? To die: to sleep;
No more; and by a sleep to say we end
The heart-ache and the thousand natural shocks
That flesh is heir to, 'tis a consummation
Devoutly to be wish'd. To die, to sleep;
To sleep: perchance to dream: ay, there's the rub;
For in that sleep of death what dreams may come
When we have shuffled off this mortal coil,
Must give us pause: there's the respect
That makes calamity of so long life;
For who would bear the whips and scorns of time,
The oppressor's wrong, the proud man's contumely,
The pangs of despised love, the law's delay,
The insolence of office and the spurns
That patient merit of the unworthy takes,
When he himself might his quietus make
With a bare bodkin? who would fardels bear,
To grunt and sweat under a weary life,
But that the dread of something after death,
The undiscover'd country from whose bourn
No traveller returns, puzzles the will
And makes us rather bear those ills we have
Than fly to others that we know not of?
Thus conscience does make cowards of us all;
And thus the native hue of resolution
Is sicklied o'er with the pale cast of thought,
And enterprises of great pith and moment
With this regard their currents turn awry,
And lose the name of action. - Soft you now!
The fair Ophelia! Nymph, in thy orisons
Be all my sins remember'd.



To sell or not to sell……That is the question. Whether ‘tis nobler in the minds of men…blah, blah, blah.

Forget “suffering the slings and arrows” of critics of your actions; we all will come to the point wherein we seriously consider whether we would be better off in the long run to sell some of our silver for physical assets. Don’t think so ? Well, what if silver were to rise to $200 per ounce amid an environment of falling prices for cars, houses, land, etc ?

This most assuredly is not a simple decision and it will dramatically affect one’s future. Many factors would be involved such as the need for the physical items, their potential for growth in future value, the relative amount of ounces of silver someone has, perception of further silver price increases relative to purchasing power, and so on.

And I’m not just talking about silver here; this thinking covers ALL items over which we have possession/ownership. For instance, a spare pickup truck may be sold in order to buy silver right now at about $30 per ounce. That is, if we have confidence that silver prices will soon increase in purchasing power. Or we may decide to buy a high miles per gallon car in anticipation of skyrocketing fuel prices. There are many decisions to make (even not selling any silver is a decision in itself). If I had bought silver in 2000 for $5 per ounce with the current price at $30 (a 500% profit), I would not sell now unless I had no other alternative. Lately there have been articles predicting $200 and $500 per ounce silver. That’s a nice thought but what if a loaf of bread costs $50 at that same time in the future ?

The same thing holds true for my thousands of vinyl records. Even though I may be able to sell them for $1 each now, I am waiting for them to become more in demand which will drive their price up. Like so many collectables, there is a time in which they have almost no demand and therefore no value. This is the time to buy and enjoy them and wait. At an average purchase price of about 10 cents each, I don’t have much invested. Some catalog out as high as $100 but I only use that as an indicator of their relative demand and scarcity.

So what deals have I made lately ?

My son told me about a 1981 Datsun diesel pickup truck that was on Craigslist. It was only a few miles away so I called him and immediately went over for a looksee. The body had some rust on a door and a sheet metal front lower panel but the rest looked okay. It hadn’t been started in 6 months so the owner put a charged battery in it and it fired up the first try. You can’t do that with a gas car as gas will gum up the carburetor or injectors and will turn to varnish if allowed to sit for 6 months.

My son and I took it for a drive and the engine was smooth running as well as the 5 speed transmission. All the lights work as well as the clutch and brakes. He wanted $600 but agreed on my offer of $400 without quibbling. It is now parked by the orchard and currently registered, waiting until I have time to service it and insure it.

It’s a bit ugly but I have learned to not care as long as it does the job for me. I’m not out to impress anybody. Not really true; I’m out to impress readers with my practicality over costly ego driven decisions. I hope you will think about this when you make future decisions.

I have had two of these Datsun diesel pickup trucks in the past and they have always been reliable and gotten great miles per gallon.

Years ago I wrote that we are in the process of moving from form to function. So forget the sleek form of a new car and get the most functional transportation you can find. Leave your ego at the door; it has no place in the future. After all, who would you be impressing with a new car or big house ? Financial morons, that’s who !

Anyhoo, I really like these early Datsun diesel pickup trucks. They are very cheap, run just about forever, get great MPG, and the diesel fuel can be stored for a long time.

Next deal was for 24 deep cycle Trojan T-105 6 volt batteries. They cost about $170 new with tax. I bargained for them and got them for $40 each. The seller threw in the battery connectors and Zener diode charge balancers, worth about $300. My problem is that I put the cart before the horse; I don’t have a charger to keep them in shape and don’t know what to buy to keep the whole bank up and running until I find the inverter and build a place for them. Maybe a large roll around cart would work for now. The batteries weigh 1,500 pounds total. So I have spent almost $1,000 and now have to get all the other gadgets to make them run my household. I told Ponce about this deal and he said that it was a deal I couldn’t refuse at that price. Oh well, I’ll let you know as I muddle through with this project.

By the way, I may not get an array of solar panels but rather run a diesel generator to recharge the batteries. However, a couple of solar panels may be necessary to keep them topped off. If I am right, a diesel generator run with mostly used engine oil would be very cost efficient.

Best wishes,

agnut

P.S.
Here’s a word to the wise from LoupGarou of timebomb2000 website :

GO GRAY,
DRESS DOWN,
DON'T
STICK OUT!


Do NOT wear anything that looks more expensive than the LOWER 50% of the population of the places that you are going. In fact, the LOWER you can go BELOW that point, the less chance that ANYBODY will bother you. Times are bad, REAL BAD. Some people may not realize that (like this person), and will pay the price for it. I know that many people are believing the pablum BS that the news media is spewing out that says that things are getting better and everything is OK. DON'T YOU BELIEVE IT. In normal times, dressing down is a good idea. Now it is probably what is going to save your life.

These people that are going to start resorting more and more to crime are "the entitled", whether on welfare, or have been a small time criminal, or was a person that lived WELL past their means and is now in serious trouble. This will only get worse, as more and more people fall into one of these three groups and believe that they are "entitled" to other's wealth. And it's going to get worse exponentially.

Get prepped, get smart, and practice SA harder and harder, and make SURE that you always dress down. And if all you have is higher end cars, you might want to think about getting "a beater" to drive into town on. $500 buys you a good one, and it will get you past places that are going to get worse and worse.

Welcome to "Hope and Change"...

Loup

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and practice SA harder and harder

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What is practicing SA?

Wondering if it's "Situational Awareness"??

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Originally Posted by MNeagle

Wondering if it's "Situational Awareness"??

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Hi MNeagle and thanks. I was wondering myself. You can’t believe all the Stupid Ass things I came up with.

Best wishes,

Agnut

By the way, I’m trying my best (such as it is) to answer posts in the order in which they are received.

For some reason in the last couple of months I’ve been inundated with an overload of events happening around the world and daily tasks here on the “ranch“. So my apologies for not having written.

Lately I’ve seen a lot of infighting between members here and it saddens me. I take the viewpoint that we members are here to learn as well as teach. I am doing my best to bring to the table what skills I have. We at GS-US have a constant flow of new readers and potential members and they are forming their opinions of what we are and have to offer them. When posting, we should always be mindful of that. Are we building up or tearing down ? Are we inviting new members and readers or scaring them away ?

Always remember that we have history on our side of what is and what is NOT money. This should be our focal point around which all other actions and reactions revolve.

This “experiment” of worldwide fiat currency will fail as it has failed hundreds of times in the past. It has NEVER succeeded once and this time it will be the mother of all failures since fiat currency is a worldwide phenomenon for the first time in history !

Well welcome back Agnut, your wisdom has been greatly missed.

Post when you're able.

Hi and thanks Mneagle for your post #60. Lots of good advice there. I would add that all of these items will vary by condition and desirability, both now and in the future.

For instance, I am a vinyl record collector as you must know by now. If somebody has a load of records for sale at a bargain price, I’m heading there as soon as I can get my pants on. I have been thinking about where the deals may be in the years to come as well as what the records will be worth and who would be buying them.

Quote:
“For LPs, look for things like more obscure Rolling Stones and Beatles records in their original sleeve and un-scratched, says Tucci. You could sell one of these for about $500.”

That is a nice thought but I have learned that rare is rarely found. The high dollar vinyl records are rarely found in my experience. I have yet to find any records valued in the Goldmine catalogs for over $100 and have only two at that price. However, I do have many valued at $40 and $50 each. I especially look for old jazz and early rock and roll. Because they are so old, 50 or 60 years, most are scratched or the jackets are worn badly.

I was in the local thrift store the other day and looked at several hundred records but bought one box set of classical piano music. There were 9 records in the set and all in perfect condition. I paid 98 cents with sales tax, typical of my 10 cents per record average. I didn’t buy for a later profit but for my own pleasure. Maybe I will make a profit someday but just playing them with my sons once will be profit enough for me.

Who owned the rock and roll records and who owned the jazz and classical records ? Easy to conclude which records look like they have been dragged down a gravel road and which have been treated with love and care. I would say that if you can find an older collector who has a large lifetime’s collection, you may well have a bargain there from a condition standpoint. This is critically important since even a rare record which is all scratched up will be worth practically nothing.

As in all things when bartering and horse trading, it requires us to think on the fly. We have to be alert when dealing. Not for the dull witted, drugged out, drunks or lazy. That probably leaves out most of the population which is actually to our advantage.

The season will begin in earnest as the weather warms up. So now is the time to get organized and have maps, cash, newspaper subscriptions, etc ready. And if you are like me, you haven’t even gone through all the goodies you bought last season.

I wrote this yesterday :

“Next deal was for 24 deep cycle Trojan T-105 6 volt batteries. They cost about $170 new with tax. I bargained for them and got them for $40 each. The seller threw in the battery connectors and Zener diode charge balancers, worth about $300. My problem is that I put the cart before the horse; I don’t have a charger to keep them in shape and don’t know what to buy to keep the whole bank up and running until I find the inverter and build a place for them. Maybe a large roll around cart would work for now. The batteries weigh 1,500 pounds total. So I have spent almost $1,000 and now have to get all the other gadgets to make them run my household. I told Ponce about this deal and he said that it was a deal I couldn’t refuse at that price. Oh well, I’ll let you know as I muddle through with this project.

By the way, I may not get an array of solar panels but rather run a diesel generator to recharge the batteries. However, a couple of solar panels may be necessary to keep them topped off. If I am right, a diesel generator run with mostly used engine oil would be very cost efficient.”

So what happened right after that ? A friend came over to pick up a truckload of fruits and vegetables for his church members and I showed him the 24 batteries. He said that he will help me put the home power system together and said that it would be simple. He is giving me rubber mats for the batteries and a book to study on different power systems. He also said that he has a couple of solar panels he would give me to charge the batteries. I know it sounds too good to be true but what have I got to lose ?

See ? Sometimes problems will work themselves out if you will let them. Telling friends and asking often opens doors. You never know until you try.

Best wishes,

agnut

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Answer2me

Ok Agnut,

lots of good deals and interesting finds since the last time i checked in with you! :o

For starters i just had my first kid, born last week. I made a list of everything i think she will need for the next 3 years and went garage sailing this past summer before she was born. My wife and i made a game out of it. I cleaned this lady out of 64 cloth diapers and inserts for $100, didnt even bargain as it was already a good deal. Dont know if you realize these cloth diapers are about $15-$20 a piece. It would cost me over $1200 a year just for disposables. Bought her a nice used crib 3 years old for $40, checked it at babiesrus and they still sell the same model for $250. Also picked up a nice all in one car seat and stroller for $40, sells at cosco for $300. spent about another $50 on cloths that will last her until the age of three. Baby items are so abundant and cheep at garage sales i dont know why more people dont take advantage. My wife made a bunch of washable rags from old shirts, we also make are own spray to clean her ass. My wifes milk came in so i dont have to worry about food for at least a year. Our goal is to spend as little on "things" for her as possible, this will allow us to continue to save 50%-60% of our income.

Here are my thoughts on this. I have noticed a lot of first time parents with brand new everything, this is where pride comes into play. My kid is better than your kid, BS! My child will not remember the gucci she wore at the age of 2 or 3, however she will remember the good times, and good times she will have.

Over the years, i have found the best way to garage sale for the home is to make a list of things you need on a weekly or monthly bases. When the weekend roles around search craigslist for the specific items that you are looking for instead of hitting random sales. Like pellets for the winter, i always try to buy as many as i can in the summer and often get them for $2 a bag, thats half off. At times i have even found food like lentils ect.. If you are determined enough, almost all of ones shopping can be done like this. We live in a convenience based world, take a little convenience out and you can save lots of $$$$

Good to see your around!

Cheers

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Hi answer2me, congratulations on the new daughter. Sounds like you have got things under control with the baby clothes, diapers, crib and nursing. My 4 children are all grown now but I can remember the early years and you know the secret of what is important to the child. And what will be remembered through the years. Playing with them.

Might I suggest that you begin to play ball with your daughter from as early an age as possible. It has been shown that simply sitting down on the floor and rolling a ball to a small child and having them roll it back somehow encourages early mental development. I did it with my sons when they were little and continued it through the years into playing soccer and baseball and basketball. I also blew bubbles for them and they delighted in popping them. I firmly believe that these connections we make with our children are the cement which connects them to us for the rest of their and our lives. Have a blast with your children; I did and it is still paying off in ways that nothing else could.

Things given to children are usually forgotten unless we as parents use these things to share ourselves and our time with them. I read to my children and sang them to sleep when they were little.

Sounds like your buying stove pellets out of season saved you a bunch. Reminds me of the 130 bales of hay I bought last summer for $3.50 per. Now they are $14 at the local feed store. Luckily I heard that the hay crop was in trouble and bought as soon as I could. Raising cattle isn’t very profitable in the first place but could have been a big loser for us if we hadn’t stockpiled the hay early.

Answer2me, I especially liked your last line, “We live in a convenience based world, take a little convenience out and you can save lots of $$$$”. It made me chuckle.

Best wishes,

Agnut

Children are what parents watched before there was television.
Agnut

This post needs a bump.

We are currently working with our neighbors on various barter things. We are the eggs for the neighborhood. We are most of the vegetables. They are in charge of hundreds of cows. We are working together on beef = eggs = veggies = coordinating cuttin and splitting wood = fishing = helping with fencing and other property things = livestock and ways to keep it = meat that we who worked it will have a piece of = not having to buy it = not having to pay for it = not having to spend 50% of my time paying some bankster tribute.

It goes on and on. We have fuel. We have guns and ammo. We have food the likes would lay you to waste. We have almost everything but freedom. It is time soon. There is little need for the fake money, other than fuel and the taxes.

$1 that you spend with the beast in terms of your spending in fiat after tax, is $1.75 or $2.00 that you would have to earn. If my neighbor delivers to me a pound of beef and I give him 3 dozen eggs, does there exist a taxing authority?

I say no.

Cut the beast out of your system, and your system will bloom with rewards.

Beautifully said and done mouse. Much of the following I wrote before reading your post. HaHa. Looks like you could have written it from experience before I even could type it. Where we are heading has much to do with how we need to react and that has been my interest for a long time. That is why I began my post here with what I call hyperstagflation. So here goes :


Hyperinflation ? Try Hyperstagflation !

I wrote about hyperstagflation years ago and warned of its insidious nature. It is not like Germany’s hyperinflation primarily because wages do not keep up with rising prices. Rather it is a process which first escapes the masses’ attention until it becomes clear too late to do anything about it. Essentially, prices going up while wages go nowhere or even falling. Gold and silver are the best antidotes for this cancerous disease. Food preps are also wise, especially in view of Japan’s current woes. Remember that Japan controls huge growing areas in southern California and now they will need them more than ever. We in the US get their secondary quality fruits and vegetables but now we may not even get that. So watch for prices to get a further increase as demand accelerates. This is on top of inflation and a growing world demand.

Here is what stillprepping posted from Carver and I wrote back in 6/16/2009 :

“Originally Posted by Carver
Nothing is 100% certain. Yes, there are inflationary forces at work but there are also deflationary forces at work.

obviously there will be both occurring and so the controversy *never* seems to get settled. indeed, it never will as long as nobody is specific about which things will be affected - so let everyone who believes one or the other make a list of exactly what items they believe will inflate/deflate. i'll begin with my short list:

inflate: oil, gas, propane, food, med bills, med insurance, higher education, taxes, gold & silver (?).

deflate: property, autos/trucks, wages, computers and other elect gizmos.
still prepping
================================================== =================
Good post still prepping. Thanks.

Several writers have stated that things you have will go down while things you need will go up. Your inflate/deflate lists are accurate.

However, what are the ramifications to us Joe lunchbuckets at ground level ? I wrote about this scenario a couple of years ago and the best way I could describe it then was to call it hyperstagflation.

The way I see hyperstagflation is a stealthy process of terrible unemployment amidst rising costs of the things we have come to accept as necessities.

Your inflate list includes oil, gas, propane, food, med bills, med insurance, higher education, taxes, and possibly gold & silver. Each item has different values to different people.

For instance, oil, gas and propane are heavily used and relied upon by a multitude living in first world countries. But the third world only uses a per capita fraction of that. The third world uses smaller, more efficient transportation means as well as public transportation , bicycles and walking.

Agnut”

The overview is that through “globalization”, we in the US by having had our manufacturing shipped overseas are in the process of becoming a banana republic without the bananas. Our horrendous foreign trade deficit stands in mute testimony of that fact.

So what can we do other than what we have already done in prepping ?

1. Get rid of all unnecessary things we have. Sell them and invest in further prepping whether food, precious metals, nickels, or whatever floats your boat (think Noah). This is easy to advise but not easy to put into action. I know; I have lots of things I should sell but can’t seem to get it in gear. I just hope you are better than me at this.

2. Make a concerted effort to hold on to what you do have. The funding for the future to protect this is most important. I don’t like dollars any more that you but I consider it a necessity for paying ongoing living expenses, even as the dollar continues to lose purchasing power. This is because it is the only recognized currency at this time. In other words, don’t put all your eggs in one basket. Even if some of the eggs are approaching their “use by” date. Hell, I know the dollar will fall in time; every fiat currency has collapsed throughout history. But we all need to get from now to a future when/if the world wakes up to the truth of real money.

3. Finish your prepping since time is becoming short and you may not be able to get some of the things you will need later. I’m looking at inverters for my 24 batteries right now. It would be nice to have at least some electricity when either the power fails or becomes prohibitively expensive. I’m even considering a steam engine to power a generator for my batteries since it can run on wood or anything that will burn. Maybe a bit extreme but we are facing extreme times.

Be aware and open to possibilities you may have missed. Water storage, caches of hidden preps, neighbors, etc.

4. Ponce said that meats will become expensive in the future but he will always be able to get some with his silver. Sounds like the movie “Soylent Green”. As long as we have over 6 billion population with a couple of billion living on less than $2 a day we will have incredible food demand pressure. This is why I expect a massive die off in the coming years. It could happen rapidly as in worldwide crop failures or slowly as demand outstrips supply. It is and has been happening to the poorest marginal survivors for many years now but we don’t hear about it much because those starving are at the lowest poverty levels and don’t get much press. It is ridiculous that we in the US have been turning corn into fuel rather than food. Fuelish ? You betcha.

Whey protein is about $30 for 6 pounds at Costco. A major protein supplement in hard times. It may be a good item for long term storage too; I’ll have to look into it.

5. Make connections now for what you will need in the future. Maybe a local farmer or rancher. Neighbors, family and friends.

6. Develop some skills that will be in demand after the shit hits the fan. Bartering and horse trading are the mental skills for transacting deals wisely but they are not the items being traded themselves. The advantage is that these skills are renewable and ever present at your beck and call.

I have been an automotive mechanic for 40 years and believe this will be of some use. A stick welder, MIG welder and an acetylene torch may come in handy. Also a vertical mill and lathe. Valve refacing and grinding equipment. Drills and saws. But always be mindful of the need for the materials you will need in order to complete the job at hand. A shoe smith needs leather and other materials; where will he get them in the years ahead unless he has a source or a big stockpile ? Think renewable resources. That’s why I am thinking about a steam engine; it can run with wood fuel which is renewable and easily available all around me. Your situation may be very different. You may live in the desert where a solar system would be appropriate. See, we all have to think for ourselves. Fun, ain’t it ?

7. Through all the above, remember Ponce’s sage advice, “Prepare today for how you want to live tomorrow”.

Yogi Berra said “The future ain’t what it used to be”.

Hyperstagflation decimates the middle class so that we end up like so many dictator countries. The elite and the poor with few remaining in the middle class.

Don’t compare the future with the last depression in the 1930s; it will be far different in many ways. We who are prepared will have to think on our feet as well as in a compassionate manner. Either we take care of each other or war against each other. I have my mental list of people I will be looking after. How about you ? It is a responsibility which we should joyfully carry; not a burden but rather a badge of courage and humanity. It gives one a sense great purpose in life. As I have written long ago, we are our brothers’ keepers.

Best wishes,

Agnut

P.S. Had to get that off my chest first.

The only deal lately has come to me. A family member showed me a govt. surplus metal storage container that is about 4’x4’x6’ with doors at either end for $67 each. I will use one for my battery pack and inverter and another container for my diesel or steam generator. We’ll see; so many things are fluid right now so I have to go with the flow.

By the way, I spoke with someone who has repaired many inverters through the years and he said that what usually goes out is the diode and is cheap and easy to repair. Since a good inverter can run up to $1,500, I have been looking for a 3,000 to 5,000 watt inverter that doesn’t work. There were some on Ebay a while back for about $50 plus shipping but nothing lately. I had hoped to buy a few and have them repaired and have a primary one and a backup and sell the rest to pay for the inverters I kept for my own use. Oh well, maybe only a dream. See ? My mind is always working, looking for a better way to get what I want or need. And yours should be too !

Spring is here and the coming months should offer a wide and huge amount of potential deals. I predict one of the best ever buying and selling seasons.

Local garage sales are already springing up around here; this is earlier than in past years. People are moving away, selling for needed cash or passing on. Remember to look for and attend estate sales, moving sales and garage sales in that order.

Bulletin boards, local papers and Craigslist. Ask and ye shall receive; seek and ye shall find.

The secret of man’s being is not only to live but to have something to live for. -Dostoyevsky

When one door of happiness closes, another opens; but often we look so long at the closed door that we do not see the one which has been opened for us. -Helen Keller

My finds for this weekend:

Flexible Flyer 55J sled that looks like it was in somebody's garage for the last 40 years- barely used. $10.

A box of kitchen utencils which had a 2 oz Sterling cake server. $5.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Spectrism

My finds for this weekend:

Flexible Flyer 55J sled that looks like it was in somebody's garage for the last 40 years- barely used. $10.

A box of kitchen utencils which had a 2 oz Sterling cake server. $5.

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Hi Spectrism, nice deals. Did the sled have rosebud printed on it ?

That 2 ounce sterling cake server is probably worth about $60; a 12 bagger there. Congrats. I personally haven’t seen any sterling silver for sale. I asked a couple of times if they had any sterling silver and they said that it was not around any more; meaning that they were wistfully remembering when sterling silver was part of our American lives.

Apparently, it’s getting vacuumed up by the gold and silver buyers and coin shops. Every weekend we have these huge signs advertising buyers for gold and silver; they are at several of the major crossroads. It gives me an eerie feeling; I’m beginning to suspect that there may not be ANY precious metals left in private hands if this tight economy continues for too long. And we all know that things sure ain’t gonna get better for a loooong time.

Makes me wonder if someday a one ounce silver round will be so valuable that the sellers may not have change for goods purchased. That is why I have some 90% Mercury dimes; for change. Who knows how much it will cost for a roll of toilet paper ? A roll of toilet paper is currently about 25 cents while a 90% silver dime is worth about $2.60. So a dime would buy about 10 rolls of toilet paper.

However, I wouldn’t ask Ponce. I believe that he will be selling by the sheet !

Best wishes,

Agnut

Hello all. I apologize for having taken so long to write. Life has been hectic for far too long. Business has fallen off the cliff but at least I had anticipated that possibility and prepared for it. Not as well as I had found necessary but I managed through it without too much discomfort. And that’s the name of the game, isn’t it ? To be prepared for what comes our way.

Lately I’ve been hitting the garage, moving and estate sales and there are some great bargains out there. Here are a few items I found with their final prices paid :

An electric salmon smoker (used twice) for $30

A Craftsman floor model band saw for $25

Two truck tires (almost new) with 8 lug rims for $5 each

5 American Racing mag 8 lug truck wheels for free

DVDs for 50 cents

A large Stress Ease chair and ottoman for $200 (about $1400 new)

An upright freezer for $25

A Pasta Express machine for $5

A tomato sauce machine for $2

Lots of early 33 1/3 vinyl records for 25 and 50 cents.

A complete Black and Decker valve seat grinding center for $25

A 3 burner barbecue with 2 propane bottles for $5

An Arrow nail gun (new) for $25

A pair of solid wood swivel bar stools for $25.

Loads of kitchen items for a few pennies on the dollar.


We are still picking up about a ton of fruits and vegetables from the local market every week. We are eating better than we ever have in the past. Mainly because we hate to see all of this great stuff going to waste. By the waist, I have lost 25 pounds in the last couple of months. Probably due to the change of diet and more activity. So this isn’t just about the money saved (I’d guess at least a couple thousand bucks per year), our health has been greatly improved.

Some gets canned, some dehydrated, some gets frozen (our freezers are stuffed full), some goes to our beefalo, some donated for free, some goes to friends. And lots gets eaten by my family. Now this fruit and veggie pickup must be going on all over the US; why hadn’t I heard about it before last year ? Because I hadn’t run across anyone doing it, that’s why.

Is anyone reading this also picking up from their local market ? Am I the only one ? Hey, somebody has to get the ripe fruit and veggies out the back door; it might as well be you !

The summer lies ahead like a banquet for those who know where to seek and find. In the next few months there will be deals made throughout the US; millions and millions of deals. For goodness sake, get out there and claim your share.

Best wishes,

agnut

Quote:

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Originally Posted by agnut

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Spectrism

My finds for this weekend:

Flexible Flyer 55J sled that looks like it was in somebody's garage for the last 40 years- barely used. $10.

A box of kitchen utencils which had a 2 oz Sterling cake server. $5.

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Hi Spectrism, nice deals. Did the sled have rosebud printed on it ?

That 2 ounce sterling cake server is probably worth about $60; a 12 bagger there. Congrats. I personally haven’t seen any sterling silver for sale. I asked a couple of times if they had any sterling silver and they said that it was not around any more; meaning that they were wistfully remembering when sterling silver was part of our American lives.

Apparently, it’s getting vacuumed up by the gold and silver buyers and coin shops. Every weekend we have these huge signs advertising buyers for gold and silver; they are at several of the major crossroads. It gives me an eerie feeling; I’m beginning to suspect that there may not be ANY precious metals left in private hands if this tight economy continues for too long. And we all know that things sure ain’t gonna get better for a loooong time.

Makes me wonder if someday a one ounce silver round will be so valuable that the sellers may not have change for goods purchased. That is why I have some 90% Mercury dimes; for change. Who knows how much it will cost for a roll of toilet paper ? A roll of toilet paper is currently about 25 cents while a 90% silver dime is worth about $2.60. So a dime would buy about 10 rolls of toilet paper.

However, I wouldn’t ask Ponce. I believe that he will be selling by the sheet !

Best wishes,

Agnut

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I ask exactly this: "Do you have any old coins or silverware that you would like to sell?"

I don't say "Sterling"... but they sometimes ask that. I have had more success when they bring out junk forks & spoons and there among the junk is the treasure. I play it very low key. If they start to look anxious, I quickly divert off to another topic, before honing in. I will ask if they have any pots for sale. Or maybe yard tools. And after they settled, any old forks and spoons.

But I ask 50 times and get one good answer. It is like sales... you must be able to let the "rejection" flow off your back. If they don't have what you want, quickly move on. And if your area is dry, try another. My best success has been with the moderately wealthy and average families. Very poor never had it and the very rich never give it up.

On the sled...no "Rosebud". She died.


btw- I did pick up a second food dehydrator a couple months back for $5. I expect to use it as you described- when the fruits & veggies are cheap and plentiful.

Great show tonight Agnut!! Kudos to you, well done!

Good advice there Spectrism. I used your advice the other day at a garage sale. The lady replied with “Do you mean sterling silver ?” She had a funny look on her face like if she had any sterling silver or 90% coins, she would not be selling them. It was just a feeling but I think I read her correctly. People are wising up and as things become tighter financially, they will begin to search for ways to make up their income shortfalls.

Already we have been seeing folks pulling back on discretionary spending (since it fell off a cliff). Next, they focused on food and paying their bills. Then came selling what they didn’t need. Now some are forced by circumstances of their own making to sell things they so need. This last situation drives down the prices of just about everything folks have to sell. In other words, a buyers’ market.

But we who have prepared, it is a two edged sword. While bargains are out there in the context of the present, what will those same items be selling for in the future ? Should we keep our powder dry and hold off buying in anticipation of future further price drops ? I am thinking about this all the time as I buy items.

That valve seat grinding center I got for $25 a while back would cost perhaps $600 if new. Did I need it ? No, I already have two other valve grinding centers. The first I paid $500 for and the second I paid $300 for. So why did I buy it if I don’t need it ?

In the first place, it was dirt cheap. What is $25 now in the scheme of things ? I could even sell it for a profit right now.

In the second place, it is a tool set which can make money rebuilding cylinder heads. And the way things are going, any new work abilities I can add may make the difference in future income between swimming and slowly drowning. It may make only $100 now and then but that $100 may well be key to financial survival.

In the third place, this particular valve seat grinding center is set up for small engine cylinder head rebuilding. Something my other ones don’t have. So I am now more diverse than before. I believe that in time, folks will be repairing small engines (and car engines too) rather than throwing them away. Our throwaway society will in time resemble places like Cuba where everything that can be of use is in high demand. Ponce says that the trash heaps of today will be the “gold mines” of tomorrow.

In the fourth place, I follow Ponce’s saying “have a plan behind the plan behind the plan”. In other words, backups. The other day our wide 4 slice toaster went on the fritz so I pulled out one I had earlier gotten for a dollar at a garage sale. Now I will be looking for another used toaster at garage sales in order to maintain my backup inventory. The toaster we are now using would cost at least $40; it is a deluxe model not normally seen except by the upper crust.

Where do I find the best merchandise ? In the best neighborhoods of course. I have maps of the local area and know exactly where these neighborhoods are. In fact, there are wealthy areas about an hour away that I have had great success. Problem is, I’m so busy that I have to really plan for such a venture.

It is important to know that the items we now take for granted will likely be very expensive, or worse unavailable, in the future. So the solution to the conflict of spending money now for backup items later is simply to find items at garage, moving and estate sales. For pennies on the dollar of course.

I tell ya Spectrism, this economy’s devolution is like having a vise tightening on your private parts. Or more politely, your wallet. I always like to exaggerate effects/consequences in order to hammer my point home. HaHa

Even physical gold and silver sometimes have a higher and better use than holding them as insurance for the future. This statement may seem anathema to this website but let me explain before y’all get out the ropes and thumbscrews.

Say silver is at $35 per ounce and the economy is on shaky ground. Hey, it is right now, isn’t it ? So an opportunity to buy a used car comes up and you don’t have the cash. You put down a deposit to hold the car and sell some silver. For instance, if the car is $1,000, 30 ounces of silver would cover the deal. And say it takes two months to fix and sell the car for about $2,000, thus making a net profit of $1,000; doubling your money. Lots of variables here, all of which must be considered beforehand.

Will silver cost $70 in the next two months ? If so, you have worked for no profit.

Will the car be finished and sold in the time allocated ? If not, the risk increases.

Is 30 ounces all of your silver holdings or only 1% of your holdings. The percent of your silver you are willing to risk is important; the lower, the better.

The car example is what we call a one bagger; doubling your money. But I have done 10 and 20 baggers. It goes without saying that the higher the return percentage, the better the deal as well as providing a higher safety margin in case final results are not as good as originally calculated.

Making fiat money from which you sold physical silver or gold in order to later accumulate real wealth (gold and silver) is a calculated risk. I wouldn’t recommend it unless you really know what you are doing. Those who can accurately figure their risk/reward ratios can make some good money. I know, I have done it. My problem when I was much younger was that I did not know how to keep the money or even know that only gold and silver are money as J.P. Morgan said.

Well, enough running on at the mouth. The bottom line here is that we are sort of flying by the seat of our pants with much of this bartering and horse trading. Personally, I can not find anything that gives me so much pleasure and challenges while in the process of saving and making money.

Best wishes,

agnut