BARTERING

By Betty Ann Deobald, Home Economist
TEAM Resources

"I have no money" is a comment heard more often these days. If this is how you feel, consider your non-monetary resources. Among these assets are time, knowledge, possessions, property and creativity. Swapping resources with others is a time-tested way of making ends meet as well as giving a sense of control over the situation when money is short.

What are your assets? Think about what your skills, talents, hobbies, and interests are. By listing these you can see what you have to offer. A second list might be needs that you are prepared to have met through a barter agreement.

Need some ideas to get you started? Almost everyone needs some type of repair work done such as small carpentry projects, storm windows repaired, leaky faucets fixed, wall paper stripped or kids cloths mended. Any type of cleaning would qualify from the interior of cars to hauling garden trash. Specific talents such as hair cutting or music lessons could be swapped for other services such as babysitting, Christmas baking or crafts. Sewing, arts and crafts, photography and baking are all areas in which Christmas expenses could be reduced by swapping talents.

Successful Bartering

To have a successful barter experience it is important to determine what the expectations are in advance. Know who will supply needed materials. Usually it is the receiver, but the provider in some cases may have the needed tools, such as a lawn mower. When materials must be purchased, work together to determine specifics such as, cost limits, quality of materials, deadlines and other details that could become irritants.

Don't assume anything. Be sure to agree on the details of exactly what will be done and make sure expectations are clear to all. In some cases a contract or written agreement may be necessary.

When you provide a service be sure you are clear on details of the expected service. Don't take on tasks that are beyond your skill level. Keep the receiver well informed on your progress and inform the receiver of any problems or delays.

When you receive a service carefully explain and supervise work to be done so you won't be caught with a completed job that is not what you expected. Don't hesitate to check the provider's qualifications.

Try making your first swap with a friend, neighbour or relative to build your confidence. Bartering places value on human resources and can involve the whole family. By being creative you can put unused talents and resources to work.