The cost of many goods, services is negotiable

By Suzanne Palmer
Published October 7, 2007

Everybody loves a bargain.

Savvy consumers know there's more to getting one than clipping coupons or shopping in a big-box store. If you want the best deal on whatever you're buying, you have to ask for it.

More than 90 percent of those who haggled over furniture, electronics and appliances, floor demonstration models and medical bills were able to get a lower price, according to a recently published survey by Consumer Reports National Research Center.

Negotiations are expected when buying big-ticket items like a home or car, but many of us never consider doing so for things like medical care.

So what's the best way to get the best price?

- Do your homework. Learn as much information as possible about the product you want to buy, including what other retailers are selling it for.

- Don't be shy. Businesses exist to make a profit. There is generally room to dicker about price. Just ask, "Can you do any better?" Avoid making a dollar offer right off the bat. Let the seller put an offer on the table first.

- Deal with someone who has the power to make a deal. In most retail stores, that's a manager or supervisor.

- If you're negotiating for professional services, go to the top. For example, if you're looking to reduce your out-of-pocket medical expenses, "Talk to the doctor, not the office manager," says Consumers Union medical adviser Marvin Lipman, M.D.

- Remember that old saying, "You'll catch more flies with honey than with vinegar"? Honey works best when negotiating, too. Smile. Keep your tone pleasant. You'll gain nothing by being demanding.

- Bargain on floor models or items with slight defects. Cosmetic blemishes that do not affect an item's function may make room for discounts. Broken zippers, torn seams or missing buttons can all be repaired. Dented metal can be pulled out, or perhaps, in the case of an appliance, it may not show when installed anyway.

- Be aware of an item's shelf life. Car dealers need to move stock in May and December to make way for next year's models. Bathing suits will be cheaper in August, even here in Florida where we wear them almost all year long. Plants may be found at lower prices as the ends of their growing seasons near.

- Consider buying in bulk. Shoppers already know that in most cases, unit price goes down as unit size goes up. It applies to laundry detergent and oatmeal, but it can also apply to things like kitchen appliances or home entertainment electronics. Ask the retailer if you can get a better price by buying all components from his store.

- Be prepared to leave empty-handed. Patience can pay off. Stock that doesn't move prevents the seller from showing anything new. Visit the store often and determine how long an item has been languishing. The longer it sits, the more bargaining power you have.

- At flea markets and antique and collectible shows, prices are generally better on the last day since the dealer would rather not pack up any more stock than he has to.

- Be open to more than just a lower price on the spot. The item may go on sale soon; ask the salesperson. When checking in to your hotel, ask for an upgrade at the price you booked. If you can't get a better price for that plasma TV you have your heart set on, ask if you can get a service warranty thrown in for free.

- Offer to pay cash in exchange for a discount. This may work especially well at small businesses, where credit card processing fees can be as much as 8 percent.

- Be reasonable. Everyone wants to get the best price possible, but don't expect to get something for next to nothing. Even saving sales tax or delivery charges will make a difference in the long run.

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[Last modified October 4, 2007, 16:29:25]