Author: Kentin Waits
Raised by two extreme savers, I'm endlessly inspired by others who swim against the tide of easy credit and over-consumption. With my dog Scout by my side, I write articles on secondhand shopping, minimalism, and debt-free living. My work has been published on NYTimes.com, MotherJones.com, Kiplinger, and in US Airways Magazine. Reach me at [email protected].
3 Hot Vintage Valuables That Might Be Hiding in Your Home
Kentin Waits on December 16, 2023
Tastes change — and so does value. These once out-of-style items are hot again — often worth hundreds of dollars.
15 Common Thrift Store Shopping Mistakes to Avoid
Kentin Waits on December 9, 2023
Thrift shopping isn’t like shopping retail. Score bigger bargains and better deals by dodging these common pitfalls.
Never Clean These 10 Things With a Magic Eraser
Kentin Waits on November 20, 2023
With an abrasiveness similar to that of fine sandpaper, a melamine sponge can quickly damage some items.
3 Hot Vintage Valuables That Might Be Hiding in Your Home
Kentin Waits on November 18, 2023
From vintage school supplies to old lawn ornaments, this month’s hot list is totally random — and wonderful.
Avoid These 9 Mistakes When Cleaning With Vinegar
Kentin Waits on November 11, 2023
Cleaning with vinegar can save you a lot of money, but using it like this can cost you.
17 Surprising Things You Can Sell for Extra Money
Kentin Waits on October 26, 2023
You probably don’t realize these items are worth decent cash.
3 Hot Vintage Valuables That Might Be Hiding in Your Home
Kentin Waits on October 21, 2023
The resale market is expanding and changing every day. Find out what treasures you may already own.
7 Reasons To Stop Watching Home Improvement Shows
Kentin Waits on October 19, 2023
Getting bad vibes from “Good Bones”? Home renovation shows are messing with our heads — and our budgets.
7 Weird Ways To Score Amazing Secondhand Bargains
Kentin Waits on September 29, 2023
Do you live in a thrift shop desert? Take heart! Secondhand deals can be found in the strangest places.
9 Forgotten Frugal Strategies — and How to Resurrect Them
Kentin Waits on September 23, 2023
These time-tested methods can help us live smarter today.
If You Find This Thrift Shopping, Buy It
Kentin Waits on September 16, 2023
Simple, well-made, and durable: This vintage cookware is finding its way back into modern American kitchens.
11 Secrets To Finding Quality Clothing at Thrift Shops
Kentin Waits on September 12, 2023
Here’s what to look for — and avoid — to buy secondhand clothing without sacrificing quality.
10 Lessons To Turn Your Kids (or Grandkids) Into Money-Savvy Adults
Kentin Waits and Kim Hoey on September 7, 2023
Americans’ money woes are well-known, but the next generation can learn to avoid such mistakes. Here are important pieces of wisdom you can share.
7 Tips for Decluttering Sentimental Items
Kentin Waits on August 25, 2023
Decluttering doesn’t mean desensitizing. Discover how to keep what you love and happily release the rest.
11 Money Lessons I Learned From My Depression-Era Dad
Kentin Waits on August 21, 2023
I didn’t always appreciate his Depression-era ways, but I’ve come to see the wisdom in the lessons my father taught.
If You Find This Thrift Shopping, Buy It
Kentin Waits on August 19, 2023
Get the “scoop” on this mid-century furniture that some buyers pay thousands of dollars for.
8 Tips for Better Flea Market Shopping
Kentin Waits on July 25, 2023
For bargain-hunters and collectors, flea markets are like Disneyland. These tips will make the experience even more magical.
Selling Your Stuff? Don’t Fall for These 5 Negotiating Tricks
Kentin Waits on July 24, 2023
Don’t let buyers fleece you — whether you’re selling via a yard sale or Facebook Marketplace.
7 Obvious Money-Saving Tips People Often Forget
Kentin Waits on July 14, 2023
There are many “no-brainer” ways to save, but that doesn’t stop us from overlooking them.
11 Ways to Upgrade Your Yard for $100 or Less
Kentin Waits on July 8, 2023
These inexpensive projects and purchases can turn any outdoor space into an oasis.
21 - 40 of 125