subject: Should You Consider Used Computers Before Buying A New System? [print this page] It's harder than ever these days, with expenses on the rise, to find a great computer system that meets your requirements, AND is within your budget. You should look at used computers first, and cut down the time you spend - and the money you hand over - for the same system you can find, used, for a much better deal.
It's comic - the picture most people still get upon hearing a friend say they've just saved a HUGE amount of money buying a secondhand computer system. It's normal for the average person to envision "asteroids" playing in slow loop, on a dinosaur from the 1970s.
Although this is probably stretching the truth, one thing is for sure - things are a lot different now. The buyer on a budget can make out as far as getting a great bargain on a quality system - with many choices in color, style and added features. Are you still in doubt? Well, do yourself a favor and read this brief article first, do some research on your own - and then form your opinion:
Individual sellers: Many people today are in professions requiring them to upgrade their systems yearly, to stay competitive. So in the first few months after New Years Day, they will list their "last year's" computer model in the online paper - if they don't trade them in for an upgrade at the computer store. So, check online for these cost-effective deals daily while looking to buy.
Internet classifieds - whether it's local, or another state's website - will often have ads run by those offering previously owned computer systems for unbelievable prices. What's especially great about these situations, is you may find one that already has everything installed on it, that you were going to spend money on - but for hundreds less than you were expecting to have to shell out for the system alone. On the other hand, check out carefully all things that seem too good to be true - because sometimes that is the case.
Bidding online: Another great way to find a good deal is by signing up to bid at one of the online sites that have electronics for sale. At times, you will find you'll be the only bidder on an certain item being offered by multiple sellers - which puts you at the advantage, and puts them at your mercy. But again, rip-offs online are common - even on these sites, so be careful.
Computer dealers: If you want an almost guaranteed honest sale, then go through an authorized computer dealer who sells secondhand systems - either locally, or online.
By now, you've seen for yourself the many sales that go on during the first of the year, offering good previously owned, and even new "but now obsolete" models from the last year. You'll have your choices in colors and system types - whether it's a basic model, or the best technology can offer. Plus, a dealer can give you a warranty for your new purchase, and this isn't usually an option when buying through a private party.
If you're wondering how stores can afford to take such a loss in sales every year, consider this. Technology changes so rapidly during the year, that a current system becomes obsolete within six months or so of production. And while there are now about three or four computer systems for every person who uses one - most of them can't afford to buy even one at retail price, especially in the present economy.
But all the used and old "new" computers are still taking up space in the store, losing money for the businesses. And, like it or not, the dealer must continue to stock his store with the latest technology. So the companies take their yearly "expected" loss, by selling the brand new "obsolete" computers, along with the bona fide used ones, at discount prices. What this means to the consumer is often a huge savings on a fully loaded desk top or laptop.
So maybe this helped you to become more aware of the many deals in used computers that are out there, just waiting to be had. You just have to study the choices and prices to make the best determination for your needs. But whichever way you pursue it, remember to do it carefully, as a computer investment is a big one.
