I tend to be the behind-the-scenes gal here on my husband’s outdoor lights blog, but from time to time I write a post about some non-technical aspect of lighting, outdoor living, or our business. But what you may not know about me, is that I consider myself a very frugal lady and write for my own blog Frugal Friends in Northern VA. I am always looking for a good bargain on groceries, clothes and other items I shop for! There’s something about a great deal that just grabs you and gives you that feeling “how can I not buy this?”

But when it comes to saving money on certain maintenance and repairs needed at our home, in our yard or on our cars, I know when to throw in the towel and call a professional. And I’ve found out the hard way that going really cheap on a project for your home or property will not save you money in the long run (ie. investment in a good quality product initially is better than replacing a poor quality product continually and dealing with all the service issues along the way). I consider myself frugal because I spend my money wisely, yet I also know that it’s wise to invest in high quality items that will last a long time and that I will get good use out of.

I was searching the internet recently and saw this “Red Flag Deal” forum in Canada that mentioned a liquidation sale on landscape lighting products at a warehouse outlet last month. They were selling solar lights for as low as $4 each; a Malibu Low Voltage 2-pack of Garden Lights for $12 each. I looked at the products and prices. I chuckled and thought to myself; even though this gentleman is sharing a great deal for 80% off of retail price: You get what you pay for!

Here’s what one gentleman wrote on the deal forum:

Crazy prices on landscape lights. They have many styles, wired, and some solar. What I maxed out on buying was Pro metal wired landscape lighting for the house. Example I bought $1500 worth of landscape lighting for $350.

Even at 77% off, I know from my husband’s own experience with these types of fixtures, that the quality of the products this man bought are poor in comparison to other products made of bare metals (instead of plastic). The longevity of the fixture, the amount/quality of light output, and the stability of the fixture when installed are all things that this man probably didn’t strongly consider when making his purchase. He just saw the big 80% off sign and thought “how can I not buy this?”

I suspect his question will soon be “how can I repair this?”

My main point is, when taking on a home project or repair, make sure you do adequate research and buy a quality product that you are comfortable with before buying the item with the lowest sticker price. Be aware that poor quality products (even at excellent prices) will not save you money in the long run.