A television is not an impulse purchase. For some people it might be, but it shouldn’t. A TV is a long term investment. You will probably have this set for twenty years. Children don’t even (usually) stick around that long. So you invest £1000, amortise that over twenty years of entertainment, and you end up paying £50 a year. If you would go to the cinema, at current prices, not including inflation, once a week for twenty years, it would cost you £6000. And that is just one movie a week.
When you consider all of the local news, network programs, plus movies you can receive, you will see that a £1000 television set is quite cheap. But, TVs don’t cost £1000 anymore. You can get a high quality, high definition flat panel for much less.
Some people have a hard time putting money into their savings account, but that is the best option for more expensive items. If you can make payments, you can save. Just think of your savings account as a bill that has to be paid every pay day. Even if it is only £5 a week, it is a much better option than putting it on your credit card.
Big electronic stores will offer ‘buy now, pay later’ with no interest for twenty four months. That is enticing, but don’t fall into that unless you really have to have that TV right now. Buying a new television set is supposed to be fun. The experience should not put added stress on you or your financial situation.
Find a TV you can comfortably afford, will fit into the space available and will provide you with years of entertainment. A television set should be enjoyed, not an added stress factor to your already stressful life.