Haggling 101: How to Negotiate a Better Deal on Anything
By Jennifer M. DeFeo
Being on a budget doesn’t mean you have to make great big sacrifices. You can still get that HDTV you want, or the new sofa you really want, or the new car you really, really want. All you have to do is haggle. Before you say ‘No way’, read the tips below. We were doubters, too, and we came around. Afterall, there was an HDTV at stake.
Be Prepared. You can’t haggle without arming yourself with information. At home, check sales prices online from different stores, and compare. Nine times out of ten, you’ll be able to find a lower price (or an added incentive, like a free camera case or $25 gift card thrown in with purchase). Print the proof out, and put it in your purse. It’s your Ace.
Go During Off Hours. Try visiting the store around 11:00am or 2:00pm when it’s least crowded. You’ll find it much easier to haggle when the salesperson doesn’t have a lot of customers to attend to.
Be Confident. Walk into that store, head held high. Salespeople can pick up on indecision, and will use it against you. Don’t worry, salespeople aren’t going to laugh at you for haggling - as much as they might want to, they want the sale more.
Be Polite and Reasonable. You’ll get nowhere with rudeness or threats, be nice; salespeople don’t’ have it easy. Also be reasonable, don’t expect a 40% discount on that new HDTV—don’t even ask. No one is offering it at that price, and you’re not going to get it at that price, either.
Be Willing To Walk Away. Walk out that door if things aren’t going your way. You can always come back, or try another store. Leave your contact information, before you go, though; this way, if a sale comes up next week, the salesperson can get in touch with you.
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