Taking care of yourself and your property is an expensive proposition this winter and the more snow that falls, the more the expenses climb.
Outfitting yourself in the proper attire is essential for outdoor safety. Marshal Cohen, the Chief Retail Analyst at Circana, says your winter wardrobe will add up quickly for a family of four.
“You've got to go out and get some new coats and new boots, you're looking at about 75 to $100 per person, per family,” said Cohen.
January is, however, a good time to make those purchases. With the winter buying season winding down, Cohen says a lot of retailers do not want to carry heavy coats into February. Some customers even use the time to plan ahead for next winter and size up when they see a good price.
Clothing is not the only costly item. The cost of snow removal equipment can pile up as fast as those white flakes. According to Cohen, electric snow shovels can run close to $100 while snow blowers can cost several hundred dollars and run up to $1,000.
“The best time to buy [bigger ticket items] it is late in the season after the snow falls. So, when March comes, if there's any product left, that's when they put them on sale,” said Cohen.
Even if you are hoping for sales, savings cannot trump safety. Experts encourage you to get the snow materials you need before a big snowfall so you are not left scrambling.