Barter for Home Repairs

I was talking to someone the other day who is short on cash, but needs some work done. Instead of going into debt, this creative individual decided to try bartering. While he just happened to stumble across someone who needed what he had to offer, anyone can give bartering a try using one of the many online bartering sites available or by running a classified ad.

Bartering Is Common In Many Countries Photo: SXC

Of course, people in medical, auto or small engine repair and veterinary fields will have few problems finding someone to barter with. Everyone seems to need their skills once in a while. But you’re a teacher or an artist. Are you realistically going to be able to find someone who will swap your skills for a plumbing repair? Sure you will. You just have to present your skills properly.

For example, instead of thinking, “Oh, I’m just a teacher,” you should be planning to offer your skills as a tutor for children who are struggling in school to a flooring expert who just got a look at his child’s terrible first quarter report card!

Once you start bartering, you’ll probably be hooked on exchanging labor instead of cash. Just don’t forget to check into tax implications. In the US, the barter value is considered to be income.