How has the economy affected you?

I agree that, in tough times, the community should be sharing their ideas as to how to weather the economy, but, there's always that nagging worry that someone might use that information against you in this hobby. Whether its using a new way to search for items or knowing that a rival might not bid on an item because their overtime has been reduced, it's this type of information that, if known, might come back to bite.

I agree with Choka that a good variety of items comes up that, without this downturn, would never see the light of day again. However, since the market is favoring people with funds, there are so many other things that I have been diverting funds to. Two years ago, the average home price in my area was $600,000 for your average 3 bed/2 bath. Now, it's about $350,000.

Thanks for sharing Choka and Cutiebunny! =) I definitely agree with you both that during this economic downturn more variety in series and high end cels have surfaced. Isn't it true, even during challenging times slivers of opportunity exist? =) So does anyone else feel we are currently experiencing one of the best buying opportunities (cels, stocks, home)? On the buying note I personally haven't bought many new cels, but I am cautiously optimistic about buying a home. After all, who doesn't love sales? Well IMHO we are living in one of the best sale around. =)

I think on a larger scale there are four really good ideas/practices coming out of this downturn that some might not be aware of. First, families are starting to save a lot more. Sadly we do not hear about this positive on Constantly Negative News (CNN). Second, people are starting to realize now they must become financially literate and not leave their dreams in the hands of the government or wall street. Third, people are realizing their job is never secure and this holds especially true as you climb the corporate ladder and reach a six figure income. Fourth, people are proactively seeking help to plan for their retirement, today. Personally I think these are all exciting development with the potential to create positive long term benefits for anyone who takes the time to learn.

not good, until now people still presume cel has a good quality value..its lucky enough to find a buyer today, i would suggest keeping hold of your cel for another 10years until the economy gets better.

I find it particularly interesting that it seems more people are trying to sell their cels since October of 2008 compared to previous months. Just browsing the RS Sales thread alone it appears more than before people are offering their galleries up for sale. I wonder if it is just coincidence that some people are thinning their collections and/or attempting to completely get out of cels. What does everyone else think?

Perhaps you on the fence as well about selling parts of your cel collection too? Or alternatively, what is keeping you in this hobby? Kindly share. Thanks! =)

Personally ive cut WAYYYYY back. Its actually a good thing because the economy has forced me to really examine what is important and focus on something i really want. In my case ive stopped collecting altogether momentarily to get my own finances back in order and to pay off large debts that i have. Then i can get back into collecting. And like i said this is a good thing because now i know what i want and when i pay off my debts i can start saving up for them. As for other people selling thier cels, i have a feeling that its somewhat the same for them. They have been forced to cut back one way or another and it has made them think of what they really want (maybe a cel you bought years ago doesnt have the same feeling like it does now) and you dont mind getting rid of it to buy something you really want now.