The exchange of services is an effective way to save money and build a more collaborative community, which in this day and age is becoming more and more necessary. Instead of paying for professional services, you can exchange your own skills with other people. For example, if you are good at gardening, you could offer your services in exchange for home repairs or any other non-monetary consideration.
In addition to the direct financial savings involved, bartering skills strengthens community social relations and fosters a spirit of cooperation. This practice, which is almost a philosophy, allows you to access a remarkable variety of services without having to spend money, only your time, and you can teach others to do the same. It is a form of collaborative economy based on win-win that benefits everyone involved.
To get started with it, you can identify the skills you can offer, and on the other hand, make a list of the services you need from others. Then, contact those who can offer you those services, and communicate your willingness to exchange their services for your skills, although you can also start with your friends, family and neighbors.
To go bigger, you can organize exchanges through local social networks or online communities. This strategy will help you save valuable money that will remain available for other things in your budget, and it will also allow you to get to know people in your community and your immediate environment better.