Are you a saver or a spender? I'm always aware that a rainy day could be around the corner, so I'm going to be prepared, and make provision for any inclement conditions. But I'm not consumed with concerns for tomorrow, and life should be enjoyed, so I try to make the most of it when I can. It's about maintaining the balance.
Do you shop around for better value? Not really. I do tend to be loyal to the people and businesses that I've dealt with previously – if I've been satisfied with previous transactions then I'm more than happy to return to them. I also work long hours and I don't have a lot of free time, so for me there really is a trade-off with regard to the time that is needed to research competing prices and offers, etc and how much would actually be saved. Of course, it does depend on what I'm purchasing.
What has been your most extravagant purchase and how much did it cost? A new car in 2001. It was an indulgence, but it was very nice. It depreciated, as cars do, but it was a better investment, and it gave me much more enjoyment than some shares that I'd previously invested in.
What purchase have you made that you consider the best value for money? My home.
How do you prefer to shop – online or local? I almost always shop locally. Some family members like to shop online, too, but it isn't something that I've felt any need to do, so far. I like to handle goods before I buy them. Quality and value can often only be assessed by seeing something for yourself.
Do you haggle over prices? In recent times, yes, if I believe the price being asked carries a premium. Otherwise, the price is the price in a competitive market, and I don't haggle.
Has the recession changed your spending habits? I believe I make more informed and more careful spending decisions now. I now prefer to spend on activities or experiences more than objects.
Do you invest in shares? I've almost none, besides a few very small holdings that I've had for years. I now consider investing in shares to be a form of gambling, and my risk aversion has sharpened since the recession. Cash or card? I use both, plus the occasional cheque.
What was the last thing you bought and was it good value for money? I had some building and renovation work done on my home. I felt that we got really good value for money as the work was difficult, but it was well carried out by a great team. We are really pleased with the results. Thanks, guys!
Have you ever successfully saved up for a relatively big purchase? As a student while working abroad I saved up for a motorcycle. I had endless good times with that bike and now I have some great memories and stories of a few interesting adventures.
Have you ever lost money? Like many others across the country, I lost on property over the last few years. Thankfully, I was not over-exposed and I live to tell the tale. Are you a gambler and if so have you ever had a big win? I now regard investing in anything as gambling. I only very seldom gamble small amounts within the ordinary meaning of the word on special occasions. I never bet more than I can afford to lose! People tell me I am lucky and I feel sometimes I am.
Is money important to you? I try to give it no more importance than it deserves, but it does make the world go round and bills must be paid, so I have to admit that it is important! Concern for the uncertainties of the future is probably my greatest driver and colours my attitude towards money.
How much money do you have on you now? €150. I top up when it dips below €50, or if I know I am going somewhere where cards are not an option.
In conversation with Tony Clayton-Lea
