Five Tips for Home Office Supplies on a Tight Budget
by Veronica Stone on December 3rd, 2007
If you are just starting a home business, you are well aware of how quickly the costs can add up. You’ll want to save every penny to put toward the business. Marketing costs, operational costs, and then making ends meet can be frustrating.
One of the most important parts of owning and operating a home office is purchasing office supplies. It is surprising how much money can quickly be spent on pens, paper, lamps, desks, and other home office necessities.
Here are some tips on finding high quality, bargain office supplies:
1. Look for the office supply store sales. Each Sunday, most newspapers contain circulars for major office supply stores. Check these out for great deals on all sorts of supplies you need. Beware! Entrepreneurs can spend hundreds in a large office supply retail store in a matter of minutes.
2. Check eBay or other online auction web sites. Some supplies, such as toner cartridges and computer equipment, are pricey even on sale. This is when you can really save a lot by bidding on Internet auctions. The best part of Internet auction sites is that you can find almost anything there - the selection is much greater than the local office supply store. Remember to check the sellers’ feedback to make sure you’re buying from a reputable seller.
3. Watch for "going out of business" sales. Sadly enough, there are retailers that go out of business. This is when you can find best buys. These retailers need not be office supply specialty stores - larger department stores might sell furnishings or perhaps boxes of paper. If you can find a small stationery store that is going out of business, you’ve hit the jackpot on smaller office supplies.
4. For larger items, check yard and rummage sales. You might be surprised to find the perfect desk or chair for your home office at the neighborhood yard sale. Sometimes the items with the most character are found at rummage sales; these can really add ambiance to your home office.
5. Buy in bulk. As a small business owner, you should be eligible to join wholesale clubs. Sam’s Club, Costco, and other wholesale clubs have great deals on bulk office supplies. The cost of membership will usually pay for itself with regular purchases. You’ll find everything you need for a successful home office at wholesale clubs - even coffee and muffins for your clients who drop in.
The easiest way to find affordable office supplies is to keep your eyes open. Communicate with other small business owners in your community. You may even make some great friends in your quest.
