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I wanted to share two huge wins!
(People ask all the time how we live a comfortable life while having everything we need, and some of what we want, as a single parent of 2, on an ssdi income.)Below is a great example along with a lesson for my child as well about the value of bartering.
I am redoing her smallish room to accomodate growing up for about $100. I wish I could paint it as well, but the refresh is awesome even still.
First, my 10 year old is an avid artist and she finally agreed to move her creation process to her bedroom.
I have been looking on Marketplace for a few months for an art/drafting table that would fit the space and items around the house to redo her room.I found an incredible early 1900’s antique table looks to be oak with cast iron fixtures that is perfect.
They originally wanted $400. I favorited on marketplace and noticed they dropped it to $175. I contacted after a few days, explained who it was for an sent a recent work she did (she’s quite talented, and asked if they’d take $75.
I have noticed that people feel good about knowing what an item will be used for and are more likely to respond and select you from several requesters when they can.)
After some discussion, they are willing to take $75 if my kiddo does a small piece for them of the front of their house. Essentially, a $100 value as a barter.
They sent a picture. She is working diligently to get it done, because she wants the table asap.
I looked around the house and found storage items etc, I had set aside after decluttering.
$0
I got a beautiful 8′ tall teak shelf on Buy nothing to swap with a smaller one I already had for lego storage/display.$0
Then, I used a local amazon overstock auction site and won a bamboo peg board with accessories for the wall and a small wood stand for holding Canvases so they don’t get damaged$12
Secured an over the door organizer on buy nothing to hold toys etc. so we can use the under the bed storage for the bins of supplies (I organized previously to contain the mess using paper sized containers and the photo boxes from Michael’s for small items.)$0
Blackout curtains and a new rod I had on hand… not sure if I bought those or if I recieved on Buy Nothing.$0
Frames that you can change the art in and store the rest behind it. Gotten on the same auction (I’ve been slowly getting what I need for the house to make it homey-er the last couple of years)$8
So… with some patience and flexibility, my kid now has an awesome room that should function well for her through her teen years.She also understands how bartering works and is a great student of frugality generally.
This is especially true now that she is earning her own money with her art.
Proud Mama.