The Best Time of Year to Make 5 Common Purchases

If you’re ready to make a big purchase, typically there is a best time to buy. Like buying chocolate after Valentine’s Day or picking up discounted patio furniture at the end of the summer, there is an optimal time to throw down your cash on certain big-ticket items. Here’s the best time of year to shop for five common purchases.

1. PICK UP A NEW MATTRESS AROUND MEMORIAL DAY.

It’s easy to take your mattress for granted, but they’re big-ticket items on which you’re going to spend a significant portion of your life. If you’re in the market for an upgraded sleep experience, look for big retail sales around Memorial Day. Most major mattress dealers have similar discounts around President’s Day and Labor Day, so look for great prices and deals around these holidays, too.

2. UPGRADE YOUR LAUNDRY ROOM IN THE FALL.

Whether you’re ready to buy a washer and dryer for the first time or ready to upgrade your old one, you’ll score the best deals in September and October. There’s a good reason for these savings: Manufacturers usually release information about new and upcoming models during the fall season, and retailers become eager to clear out their existing stock of the current models to make room for the new ones.

Outside of this two-month window, Black Friday has become a perennially strong time to get a bargain on large appliances, so you may be able to enjoy big savings if you have the luxury of waiting a few months to pick up that new washer.

3. BOOST YOUR CLOSET BY SHOPPING OUT OF SEASON.

Want to update your wardrobe? You’re generally going to see the best prices by shopping right after the holiday season. But if you’re looking for a specific article of clothing, you can time your purchases a little more precisely. That new swimsuit you’ve had your eye on will likely be a better deal in September when the summer shopping season is coming to a close. On the other end of the spectrum, February is a great time to buy a winter coat as retailers start planning for spring.

4. SHOP FOR HOUSES DURING WINTER AND FALL.

Buying a home is one of the biggest purchases most consumers make, so it’s clearly important to get the best deal possible. Spring and summer are typically the hot times to buy, so by shopping in an off-peak season like fall or winter, you may be able to gain more negotiating power. Moving when it’s chilly outside may not sound like much fun, but getting a better price thanks to less demand in the market can easily make it worth it.

5. SHOP FOR NEW CARS IN DECEMBER.

Looking for a new set of wheels? You might want to wait until December to get the best deals on a new car. Buyers who shop in December save an average of 6.1 percent off the sticker price. Since cars carry hefty price tags, that number can translate into four-figure savings.

There’s another upside to shopping for a car in December: It’s the month that typically has the largest inventory of available cars. So if you’re in the market for a new car, perhaps consider it an early holiday gift for yourself.

Timing purchases correctly can put more money in your pocket at the end of the year. Another way to earn more is with Cashback Match from Discover. We automatically match all the cash back you’ve earned at the end of your first year as a cardmember, dollar for dollar. Terms Apply. Learn more at Discover.com.