Extreme Couponing for Normal People

I was reminded today that you can save money everywhere even without coupons.  Sometimes as couponers, we may get stuck in the mindset that an actual coupon is needed to save $$.  Not the case at all!  

As I was finishing up lunch with my kiddos, a knock came to the door.  It was a solicitor.....(groan), but it was actually very beneficial to my bottom line and value of services to listen to what he was "pedaling".  Isn't that the root to couponing?  Best value at the lowest price?  (Not to mention the thrill of scoring the deal!)

Anyway, after listening to what his company offered (trash service) and compared it to what I was already paying with a competitor.  I was going to switch services, but my current company actually MATCHED the competitor's price and guaranteed the price for a year!  Not only do I get to stay with a local company that I have used for years now (and know with confidence their level of service), but I also get to save $$ and pick up an extra additional service of weekly recycling pickup for $120.00 less a year!  That's like getting 3 months FREE at my old rates!

So, the moral of my tale is this.....every so often (at least once a year) make a point to "shop" around for competitor's pricing on services you already have for your home, cars etc.  More times than not, your current provider will match the competitor's price to keep you as their customer!


Now THAT makes my piggy bank smile!