At least once in your life -- maybe even once a week or once a day, for that matter -- you have fantasized about coming into a lot of money. What would you do if you were worth millions or even billions?
Some of you may do nothing at all. Believe it or not, there are millionaires and billionaires among us who masquerade as relatively normal, money-conscious people. Take a peek at some of the most frugal wealthy people in the world.
Warren Buffett
Millions of people read Warren Buffett's books and follow every move of his company, Berkshire Hathaway. But the real secret to Buffett's personal fortune may be his penchant for frugality.
Buffett, who is worth an estimated $47 billion, eschews opulent homes and luxury items. He still lives in a modest home in Omaha, Neb., that he purchased for $31,500 more than 50 years ago. Although Buffett has dined in the best restaurants around the globe, given the choice, he would opt for a good burger and fries accompanied by a cold cherry Coke.
When asked why he doesn't own a yacht, he responded, "Most toys are just a pain in the neck."
Carlos Slim Helú
While most of the world is very familiar with Bill Gates, the name Carlos Slim Helú rarely rings a bell. But it's a name worth knowing.Slim, a native of Mexico, was recently named the world's richest person -- that's right, richer than the Microsoft co-founder. (Microsoft publishes MSN Money.)
Ingvar Kamprad
The founder of Swedish furniture phenomenon Ikea struck success with affordable, assemble-it-yourself furniture. For Ingvar Kamprad, figuring out how to save money isn't just for his customers, it's a high personal value. He's been quoted as saying, "Ikea people do not drive flashy cars or stay at luxury hotels."That goes for the founder as well. He flies coach for business, and when he needs to get around town locally, he either takes a bus or heads out in his 15-year-old Volvo 240 GL.
Continued: 'I set out to work hard, not get rich'
