The Art of Barter

How much is your time worth? Maybe more than you think.

Bartering is a means of exchanging one service or commodity for another, without the use of money. In times of monetary crisis (like Now!), when cash is in short supply, it can be a means to get the things you need without having to dip into the old piggy bank.

Over the years I’ve bartered for many things. For my part I’ve offered services such as bookkeeping, dog walking, window cleaning….you name it. In return I’ve received technical help on the computer, electrical work, even a chance to go treasure diving. After training as a massage therapist I plied my trade part time for monetary payments but also found it to be a great bartering commodity (And get your mind out of the sewer! We’re not talking about sexual favors here). If I needed heavy work done in the garden, for instance, there was always someone willing to help out in exchange for a massage session or two.

There’s plenty of scope to barter for “stuff” as well; just take a look on Craigslist. You may be surprised that items that no longer have worth to you may well be of value to others.

The thing to do is make a list of what you want (or need) and another of what you have to offer. Don’t sell yourself short; think of everything you might do – sewing, cleaning, errands. Do you have specialized training? Auto mechanic, plumber, computer skills, artist? What might be lurking in the garage or attic that you could exchange? Do you have furniture, a car, a boat that you no longer want?

Once you know what you want and what you can offer, put your own ad on Craigslist or Kijiji. Check the classifieds or you could try approaching someone directly. If your air conditioning needs a serious tune up before the summer heat hits, try asking a local professional if he’d be prepared to do the work in exchange for bookkeeping, office cleaning, hair cutting, yodelling lessons, whatever…..!

There are also a myriad of online bartering services now-a-days. Just search online for barter clubs. Bear in mind, though, that these clubs require fees, however small, for helping match you with other members.

Another thing to consider is that there may be tax implications with bartering. (Oh, yes! The IRS wants its piece of you even when no actual money is involved). To learn more check here.

Well, I’m about to place an ad for an old conversion van I no longer use. I’ll gladly take cash for it but I also need some painting and repairs done around my house. My husband is just not Mr. Fixit, so I’m also going to offer the vehicle in exchange for the work and, frankly, I’ll probably get better value out of it as a barter.

“He who wants to barter, usually know what’s best for him.” – African proverb