Economics: Today and Tomorrow © 2012Chapter 5:
Buying the NecessitiesChapter OverviewsSection 1: Shopping for Food
Shopping for food involves many considerations, including brands, sizes, quantities, unit prices, freshness, the availability of coupons, and store locations. Deciding what food to buy involves many trade-offs, including whether to shop at a club warehouse store or a convenience store, and whether to buy brand name products or private-labeled products. Section 2: Clothing Choices
Clothing value depends on style, durability, and cost of care, as well as purchase price. Consumers have many alternatives to buying clothing at full retail price. Department stores often have sales, especially at the end of a season. Section 3: To Rent or To Buy
There are advantages and disadvantages to buying a home and renting a place to live. Renters usually have to pay a security deposit in case the apartment is damaged. Renters should read their leases carefully to understand their rights and responsibilities. Potential home buyers need to consider many different costs before deciding to purchase a home, including how large a home loan (mortgage) they can afford. Section 4: Buying and Operating a Vehicle
Buying a car involves comparing many variables such as the initial purchase price, repair history, warranty, and styles of different makes and models. Operating a car is expensive, involving the costs of gasoline, routine maintenance, major repairs, depreciation, and insurance.  | 
