Are you a saver or a spender?
Working in tax means that saving is in my DNA. I’m more aware than most of the reliefs available to be claimed, and practise what I preach in respect of keeping records and receipts in order to ensure that nothing goes unclaimed. In my downtime, I love to spend on my family and enjoy the little things like hot chocolate and ice cream with the kids. I like to save where I can so that I can treat the family on family holidays.
Do you shop around for better value?
Like most people, I struggle to find the time to shop around as much as I would like, but I do love a bargain and like to get good value for money. There are some things that I always shop around for, such as car insurance. Also, whenever anything needs to be done for the home, I would always get a few quotes before making any decision. When selecting a supplier or a service it is important to remember of course that the cheapest option is not always the best value for money – quality is key.
What has been your most extravagant purchase and how much did it cost?
Music is a huge part of my life. I studied Music Education in Trinity College and have always had a huge love for it. I would say the most extravagant purchase is still related to music. Finding the right instrument can take you as far as Chicago. It’s a very personal choice, which is not always about the cost. Obviously, when you’re a saver, something like this is extravagant, but the overall enjoyment you get from it far outweighs the cost. And they hold their value.
What purchase have you made that you consider the best value for money?
The kids’ trampoline in the back garden. I could never have imagined the amount of time they would spend on it.
How do you prefer to shop – online or local?
It depends on what I am buying. I find it very difficult to shop for clothes online, but would often buy books and other items. Working in Dublin city centre makes it very easy to access a variety of shops, so I am spoilt for choice. I also have a number of local shops where I live and like to support local businesses whenever practical. Some of the local shops are surprisingly well stocked and have great offers.
Do you haggle over prices?
No, I am really not good at this at all. I really admire people who do it as, time and time again, they secure discounts. On occasion, when I have asked for a discount, I have been surprised to get it.
Has the recession changed your spending habits?
I was always cautious with money. However, I have found myself over the last few years reviewing the outgoings more and more to try to make sure we are getting the best value possible – for example, in relation to health insurance and other service providers.
Do you invest in shares?
No, I feel that I would need to have the time to oversee the investment properly, as I like to be in control. It works well for a lot of people and might be something I do in the future, but for now I would prefer not to.
Cash or card?
Definitely card whenever possible.
What was the last thing you bought and was it good value for money?
A music book for my nephew. I didn’t haggle over the price, so it probably wasn’t such good value.
Have you ever successfully saved up for a relatively big purchase?
Like most people, my family home would be the biggest purchase I have made. I have a mortgage, but still had to save for the deposit and for the various pieces of work done on the house.
Have you ever lost money?
No, unless you count being pickpocketed in Rome.
Are you a gambler and if so have you ever had a big win?
The only gambling I have ever done is the Lotto and scratch cards. I think I won about €150 once, but that was actually a birthday present from a friend so it probably doesn’t count as me gambling.
Is money important to you?
In a perfect world the answer to this question would be ‘no’. Life doesn’t always go smoothly, however, and it is important to have the cash ready if needed to deal with life’s little emergencies. As they say, money doesn’t bring happiness, but it definitely can make one more comfortable in their misery.
How much money do you have on you now?
€50. It is usually an even number, as I use my card and only really have this as a backup.
in conversation with Tony Clayton-Lea
