How To Ask For and Get Discounts on Anything

Many people never even consider haggling down the price of merchandise they want to purchase. It seems a normal practice in open-air markets while on vacation or when you find something you like at a yard sale but for the most part, people don’t ask for discount for three reasons: they are afraid of the confrontation, they don’t think it will work, or they just never think to ask.

Asking for a discount is not difficult at all but for those who are not comfortable doing so, there are ways to build confidence and at least try out the tactic. The worst-case scenario is that you will be told ‘no’ but the best case scenario is that you will get what you want and save money at the same time.

Here are some tips to get your started on your new haggling techniques:

Present Yourself Well
Be courteous and respectful when meeting with a sales person. Cockiness will likely not merit you any bonus points. While being confident is good, remember that you want the salesperson to treat you in the same manner you want to be treated. Making friends with the bargainer can go a long way to netting you a more than fair deal.

Start Simple
When a sales person relays the price of the item, simply ask ‘Is that the best price you can offer?”. Let them come back to you with an answer. If they decline a better deal, thank them and move along.

Show No Desperation
While you may be dying on the inside to have that leather recliner chair in front of your television, don’t let the salesperson know it. Start the negotiation process but remain casual. If they refuse to work a deal, be ready to walk. Chances might be good they will call you back with a better offer before you reach the door if they truly believe you are going to go somewhere else.

Show Them the Money
If you walk into a store with cash in hand to pay for the merchandise, you may be able to score a better deal than if you were to need financing. A good rule of thumb for buying big items is to always remember if you don’t have the cash to pay for it, you shouldn’t be buying it in the first place.

Bargaining for a better deal should not wound your pride. It is a simple tactic used to enhance your financial situation. There are many deals out there that you just have to ask for. If you are not asking, you are paying much too much for what you want.