Back 10-12 yrs ago, I used coupons a fair amount. I had a very decent renter (1 rental at the time) and I would give the excess to her. With her & 4 kids, they were quite appreciative. I used coupons alot until 5 yrs ago. My wife is more particular on what she uses (likes Trader Joes, etc that don't have coupons). I don't take the time for that like I used to.

Whatever my renters didn't use, they gave away. They got alot of very expensive goods (toothpaste, laundry soap, cereal, etc) that cost me very little. I had plenty for myself. I worked 2nd shift and I commuted 57 miles o/w to work so the stores at 11:00PM were not busy.

I discovered FT in 2001 and didn't spend as much time couponing. The couponing skills came in handy in finding deals on airfare, etc. I graduated to things with larger rewards. I like the nice large bonuses doing credit cards.

One recent example was my sister & brother-in-law wanted to go to Australia/New Zealand. They know I am aware of the "deals". I told them to each apply for 2 Citi 75K cards each (I did the applications for them as they do stuff for me) and got instant approvals. For 30 or so minutes of my time, they ultimately ended up with 300K total AA miles. For 2 credit inquiries each & 3K each person spend (on stuff they would normally buy), they got their miles. 150K took care of their Australia/NZ trip & they had 150K left for other trips. Great use of my time. ^