Why buy when you can barter?

A newly launched bartering site I reported on earlier this year promises to be a boon for budget-conscious Canadians. SwapSity opened to the public on March 22 and is offering all sorts of goods and services. I love this idea, because it helps people save money and go easy on the planet. According to SwapSity founder, Marta Nowinska, some members have already saved as much as $2,500 by choosing to barter instead of buy. "Online swapping of unwanted possessions, free time or talents is a perfect solution for cost-conscious Canadian consumers seeking a more affordable way to acquire goods and services during these trying times," she says. Nowinska also points to a recent Consumer Confidence Report from marketing company TNS that indicates that "confidence numbers remain quite flat" and there is little indication of "significant consumer spending." That, says Nowinska, means that cinching one’s financial belt is the latest fashion.

Comments

[Andrew]

It is nice to barter, but be aware that if you do it a lot, the Canada Revenue Agency (i.e. the tax people) expects you to remit GST and business taxes on the proceeds.

[lilly]

I also like bartering a lot. It's one of the best ways to save money. There are so many things, you don't need anymore (used or even new), which you could exchange for something you really need. I already had a look at the Website. I like it, but maybe I can recommend another one. it's: www.barterquest.com where you can barter worldwide!