Cutline Speaks

Just Like Borrowing a Cup of Sugar From Your Neighbor

posted by LizM on July 27, 2010

Although I don’t necessarily need an 8’ x 24’ portable flat face soccer goal at the moment, thanks to NeighborhoodGoods.net I know that there is one available for my borrowing pleasure if I ever need one... as well as 371 other items within 50 miles from my house. The site, which connects you with neighbors who are willing to lend out anything from lawn mowers to shoes, integrates social networking as well as Google Maps to make for an easy and personalized borrowing experience that’s close to home.

The goal is to allow you to save money on something you might need only once by borrowing instead of buying; you receive confirmation emails revealing how much you would have spent on an item that you instead borrowed for free. As far as trusting people with returning your personal goods? The site uses a rating system, similar to Ebay, so you are aware of any dishonest borrowers. You also have the advantage of completing the transaction in person.

In addition to getting the awesome feeling of doing a good deed as a lender, you might also get to know a great neighbor in the process. Check out NPR’s article on NeighborhoodGoods.net for more information. You can also take a look at this video.

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