Fall projects are starting, holiday stock is arriving and Home Depot‘s end-of-the-year markdowns are around the corner. Whether you’re upgrading tools, planning winter fixes or just hunting for deals, this is the time to shop.
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The seven hacks below can help you end your year with extra cash left in your budget. And if you’re a retiree heading to the home improvement store, don’t forget these winter must-haves.
1. Lock In the Lowest Price With 30-Day Protection
Home Depot’s Price Match Guarantee isn’t just about matching a competitor’s price. If you find an identical, in-stock item for less elsewhere, the store will match it and may even beat it by 10% in-store.
You also have 30 days from the date of purchase to request a price adjustment if Home Depot’s own price drops, so you can buy now and still capture a lower price later.
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2. Snag the Special Buy of the Day Before It’s Gone
Home Depot posts an online-only Special Buy of the Day that can cut prices 30% to 40% or more on tools, appliances, flooring and decor.
A countdown clock based on Eastern Standard Time shows when the deal expires, and all offers reset at 3 a.m. ET (12 a.m. PST, 1 a.m. MST, 2 a.m. CST). Free delivery is included on most items except major appliances. Check early, as popular items can sell out before breakfast.
3. Time Your Shopping for Post-Holiday Clearance Gold
In early fall (September-October), Home Depot often begins fall clearance of outdoor furniture, garden tools and remaining summer stock to make room for holiday inventory. While deep discounts on holiday decor typically come later, there may be early markdowns or special promotions leading into the holiday season.
4. Stack Every Discount Home Depot Allows, All in One Purchase
Layering deals is where small percentages add up. Start with Home Depot promo codes or manufacturer rebates, then pay with a cash-back credit card or discounted gift card for an extra bump.
Pro Xtra members and store-card holders sometimes see exclusive offers or extended financing. Combine everything on a single transaction and you’ve built your own mega-sale.
5. Time Big Buys to Hit 0% Financing and Clearance at Once
Large projects that include think appliances, flooring or power tools can strain a budget, but Home Depot frequently runs special financing promotions, including limited-time 0% APR plans.
The real hack is to plan a purchase when those promos overlap with clearance or holiday sales. Done right, you spread payments over months without paying a dime in interest while scoring the lowest price.
6. Sidestep Common Traps That Kill Your Savings
A few missteps can wipe out your hard work. Clearance and “special buy” items often don’t qualify for price matches. A competitor’s ad must match the exact model and be in stock. And grabbing something just because it’s half off still counts as overspending if you don’t need it. Stick to your list so the savings stay real.
Start the Year Ahead
By combining these strategies, you can finish the year with projects moving forward and more money left over. The smartest buys aren’t just cheaper today, they give you a head start on the year to come.
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This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: Top 6 End-of-Year Shopping Hacks To Try at Home Depot To Save Money
