A. M. 
Purchasing new household items may be a necessity, but without proper planning, it can lead to over-indebtedness. To avoid falling into this risk, there are several strategies that can help maintain healthy finances and proper control of purchases. Here are five economic tips that anyone can apply when making these types of purchases.
The first tip is to assess the actual need for the items. Before making any purchase, it is important to consider whether it is really necessary to acquire the product or if it can be postponed until you are more financially stable. This will avoid the accumulation of non-essential goods that, in the long run, only increase debts.
Second, establishing a clear budget is essential. Having an accurate idea of how much can be spent without affecting personal finances will help avoid impulse purchases. It is useful to compare prices among different suppliers to find the best deals and make sure the item fits within the allocated budget.
Another important aspect is to avoid long-term installments. Although paying in monthly installments may seem attractive, extending them for a long time can generate interest that raises the total cost of the item. It is advisable to opt for short installments or even cash payments if possible, to minimize additional finance charges.
The fourth tip is to review the credit conditions before accepting any offer. Many times, stores offer financing that, although they seem accessible at first, have clauses that increase interest rates or apply penalties in case of arrears. Carefully reading the contract and understanding the terms is crucial to avoid unpleasant surprises.
Finally, keeping constant control of debts is essential. Keeping a record of outstanding payments and due dates helps prevent delays and late fees. In addition, it is important not to exceed 30% of monthly income in debt, as this can compromise the ability to cover other basic expenses.
By following these five tips, anyone can avoid over-indebtedness when purchasing household items and maintain balanced finances.
