Here are some of the facts. Over the last 25 years of my professional and business career I have viewed barter both as a primary income source and as a secondary or back up income and "purchasing power" system. I have had a lot of experience in both systems. I have had a lot of cash go through my hands in my lifetime. I have participated in many thousands of barter transactions.

I have always wanted to have the capability to purchase something when I needed it or wanted  it, though many times I did not have this option. Of course there were times when my cash flow has been quite fluid, but there has been just as many times (maybe more) when I was either dirt poor, broke and or busted. Frankly, not everything I touched in the past turned to GOLD in my professional life. A lot of times my business ideas have bitten me in the butt. Either I would not think through these decisions objectively or I would make to quick of a decision, not doing my due diligence, (OUCH), and of course this is not very wise. Over a lifetime of doing these unhealthy behaviors, you either learn, or you don't. Fortunately, I learned.

For me, barter and trade is easy because I understand these key things. In barter, you must always take care of the other person first, and secondly, you must make it a "win - win" situation for everyone involved. Barter is not just about the money. First and foremost, barter is in the relationship. It is about being fair, just, honest, and clear. Whenever two people can see how they can help each other and it becomes a natural mutual benefit, well I believe that is right next to incredible! I have also discovered that two out of three of my barter transactions have yielded me-either directly or indirectly- new cash income as a result of these barter business relationships.

Bartering and trading with another person can really be a lot of fun. I like the challenge of it. I decide what I want or need and then I scout around to see who may offer it for sale. I might even get a list of two or three businesses or individuals. (That is just in case someone says, "No"). I approach them asking questions to determine if there is a way I can meet their needs some how. Most often I will find something that they need or want; most people have something. Hopefully it will be a service that I can provide. Make yourself a list of your talents, abilities, skills, knowledge  you have, items you own, etc. and with this list include what you would consider an honest and fair price. Build value into your product or service.

TAX NOTE: The IRS tells us on their website that they view barter transactions just like cash income on both the income and expense side of things. Contact your accountant for more information of your personal tax consequences of bartering.