Save Big: Five Things You Should Buy Secondhand

Oct. 12, 2010 — -- Secondhand stores are booming, not despite the tricky economy, but because of it.

The Association of Resale Professionals says secondhand sales are increasing 35 percent a year, whereas regular retailers are only seeing gains of about 2 percent.

What does this mean for you, the consumer? Better inventory and bigger bargains.

Buying used not only saves you money, but saves the environment because re-using products is very green.

Losing weight is the No. 1 New Year's resolution every year, and a few weeks or months later, when somebody else's resolution is forgotten, you can score a great deal.

Indestructible things like dumbbells are the safest bet. Try out more complicated machines for a good 10 to 15 minutes to make sure they work. And stick to the tried and true types of equipment found in gyms, rather than oddball as-seen-on-TV equipment that makes over-the-top fitness claims.

Typical bargains are 50 percent to 75 percent off buying used. "Good Morning America" found the Lifecycle 9500 for $1,137 new. By contrast, the used price: just $100 on Craigslist.

Click HERE to see five other items you should buy used.

They say diamonds are forever, but you may decide that new diamonds are never when you hear the price differences.

The industry likes to claim that diamonds appreciate in value, but really, they have a pretty dismal resale value -- which is great for buyers.

Also, diamonds, other gems, gold and silver don't wear out -- unlike other used goods.

Just make sure you're buying from a reputable seller and have the jewelry appraised before paying. Then pay with a credit card so you can dispute the charges if necessary.

One example: a classic Tiffany ring, three-quarter karat size, nice quality. New: $4,880. Used on eBay: $2,500.