Craigslist is a wonderful, magical thing.
For years, I've detested my mismatched aging kitchen appliances. When we bought the house five years ago, we found a good open box deal on an Energy-Star rated top-of-the-line refrigerator (in black), but everything else had been there since our house was built in the 80s and was aging, yellowing white. The dishwasher was loud. The range wasn't level. The vent hood was ugly and just a vent hood, so we also had to take up separate counter space with a microwave. But it all worked, so it seemed like a frivolous luxury to replace them. So they just stayed there, irritating me.
Finally I'd had enough. I started making a daily habit of perusing Craigslist For Sale - Appliances - By Owner section. With a bit of patience and persistence, I managed to get a new gas range for $250, dishwasher for $50, and over-the-range microwave/vent combo for $150. All were stainless steel + black trim so they match the existing fridge much better and just all around make our kitchen look much more modern. All were also less than three years old - people just already remodeling to get the "latest" style instead.
So that was great, as I had already saved probably $1000 - $1500 what I would have paid new. But I wasn't done. I then listed our old stuff for sale as well - dishwasher for $100, stove for $200, microwave for $100, and vent hood for $50. And I got what I asked for on all of it.
In other words, I just completely upgraded all my appliances completely free. I'm pretty pleased with myself right now. :-D
