When rehabbing, of course, keep all your receipts for tax and file purposes. For the big stuff, take back what you don't need and get a store credit or get your cash back when you're done. But keep the little stuff. You're bound to have tons of miscellaneous leftovers like nails, screws, bags of sand, concrete mix, tubes of spackling, a pallet or two of roofing shingles, tile pieces, felt, sheetrock, mud, tape, etc. Just find a nifty corner in your garage or basement for this stuff. If you're in this business for the long haul, you'll use it again.
The next method that I have used to acquire parts for less for my automobile is a bit more risky than shopping at a local
savage yards near me, but I have never experienced any type of complication from making purchases in this fashion. This step involves using the internet. There are many different online resources that can be implemented when purchasing vehicle components online. For example, there are many online wholesalers that have massive amounts of parts that can be sold at much lower prices than automobile parts stores offer. In addition to this, there are online auction websites like eBay, as well as many classified advertisements that offer great deals on vehicle components.
There are a lot of aftermarket auto parts you can purchase and install on your own. A little homework before you start the project and you are good to go. Also a lot of suppliers have detailed instructions on the how to. I find it very satisfying to do the work myself. You get the feeling that you did it all! And it is always a good conversation piece. Although, if you have not attempted anything like this before, I always recommend a professional to do the install.
Nitro cars and trucks are noisy and smelly. They make the loud whine that people associate with model racing, but they also produce exhaust which means that they cannot be used indoors.
Still had the old catalog, and ordered a couple things to "fix her up". Good quality at a price I could afford. (That's what I liked.) Then once, I got a part that was supposed to fit all cars (but not MG's, I guess), and they quickly refunded my money. (That's what I mean.) Now even today, I still trust them for supplying quality parts at reasonable prices. (That's what I appreciate.) I still order from them for my 'Vette, my truck, and motorhome.
The used auto parts can also be purchased from stores which specialize in selling only used auto parts. Most towns and cities have such stores. Many of these stores, both offline and online, also provide warranties. Their sales staff would help you to chose the required auto part if you have any confusion over it.