Should I buy it? Start with these questions

A second opinion works best when you can explain the decision. Before sharing your next purchase on BuyOrNah, use this checklist to turn “I want it” into a question your friends can help answer.

1. What problem would it solve?

Write one specific situation where you would use it. “My headphones stopped working and I take the train every day” gives your friends more to work with than “They look great.” If you cannot name a situation, leave the item on a wishlist and come back later.

2. Is it a need or a want?

A need supports something you have to do; a want makes life more enjoyable. Both can be reasonable purchases. Ask what happens if you wait a month: would an essential task become difficult, or would you mainly miss out on having something new?

For example, replacing broken work shoes may solve a current problem. Buying a fourth pair because of a sale may be a want. The useful question is whether that enjoyment fits your priorities and budget.

3. What is the full cost?

Include delivery, accessories, subscriptions and maintenance. A $100 device with a $10 monthly subscription costs $220 in the first year before any other charges. Compare that total with what you can spend after essentials and planned savings.

4. Could an alternative do the job?

Compare keeping or repairing what you own, borrowing, renting, buying used and choosing a simpler version. Write down the best alternative and what you would give up. A cheaper option is useful only if it actually meets your needs.

5. Would you still want it without the discount?

If the urge started with a countdown or a sale notification, step away from checkout. Pick a time to reconsider — tomorrow, for example — and close the store tab. This is a practical pause, not a guarantee that the urge will disappear. Check the return policy as well; returning an item may involve fees or effort.

6. What should a friend know?

Share the item, price, reason and your strongest alternative. Ask for an explanation as well as a vote. “Would this help with my commute enough to justify the price?” invites more useful feedback than “Should I get this?” Avoid including private financial details in a shared request.

Try it with a real purchase

You might write: “I want $150 headphones because my current pair cuts out on calls. Repair would cost $50, and a basic replacement is $70. Is the extra noise cancellation worth it for daily train travel?”

Votes offer another perspective; the final decision stays yours. You can read results without voting yourself.

Create a purchase request and ask your friends →

Written by the BuyOrNah team at FantasyByte.