Strapped for Cash? Swap and Save!

Do you have items in your basement or attic gathering dust?  Or marketable skills others would die for?  Chances are your dust laden trinkets are things someone else wants and is willing to trade for, and that special skill you possess, is worth gold or at least an invitation to Sunday dinner, to many cash strapped folks.

Millions have found creative ways to go green while still acquiring stuff, and all without having to shell out their hard-to-come-by cash.  Their secret   – old fashion bartering, but with an electronic twist!  Truthfully, both on and offline swap and shop sites are seeing tremendous increases in activity as many folks are turning to bartering to help survive this economic crunch. 

The world of bartering is huge; new sites and shops are opening routinely; and while navigation at some sites takes a bit of finesse, you’ll find a lot of great bargains once you get there.  Before venturing out on your own, get your sea legs in shape here, by taking a look at a few of these popular sites. 

U Exchange – One of the larger sites that specializes in all types of trades.  Their motto is “Trade Everything, Pay Nothing”.  Special features include international listings.

Trade Attic  – A social networking site that allows you to post your unwanted treasures for free.   Also a wonderful site to list the items you need.

Swap At Home – Receive Swap Coupons for posting items you no longer want; then use your coupons to purchase the things you need.

Labor Trader – This is the place to make a local connection if you have a service to offer or are in need on one.

Favor Pals – Get anything you want from child care to health care simply buy giving something in exchange.  Check out their “Favor Hints” if you’re not sure what favor to give in exchange for something you need.

Trashbank – This site allows you to sell, as well as barter, trade and swap.

Swap-It Now – Billed as the” Internet’s Flea Market”, this lesser known site allows you to trade items ranging from DVDs to automobiles.

Trading the skills you possess or the items you own for things you want or need, is a great way to watch your savings grow.  Haven’t you heard?  Bartering is the new black and green!