Comparison Shop After Your Purchase
By Donna L Montaldo, About.com Guide
Okay, so you have made your decision on what you are going to buy, where you are going to buy it, and how much you will pay for it. However, what if you make your purchase and find out the next week that the price was further reduced? If you were careful about where you shopped (Tip #1), then chances are you will be able to recoup some of the money.
Most stores offer a specific time period for you to get a price adjustment on an item that has received further reductions after your purchase. They may even adjust to competitor's prices after the sale if you bring them all the proper documentation such as your receipt and a copy of the advertisement. Ask the store what their policy is regarding price adjustments before you make your purchase and make sure to get a hard copy of the policy for your records.
For stores that fail to cooperate within a reasonable time (generally two weeks are what most retailers consider reasonable) then simply return the merchandise and repurchase it at the lower price, elsewhere.
Just remember though, if you do not shop after the purchase you will never find out that the price was further reduced. Also, the burden of proof is on you so keep your receipt!
Cashing In on Dents and Scratches
Scratched or dented merchandise is big business now. Stores specialize in offering this slightly bruised merchandise at big discounted prices. We are accustomed to seeing furniture and appliances with "scratched" or "dented" signs on them. But, what we sometimes forget about are the smaller items that you find in your regular department stores.
Take for example the new leather purse you may be interested in buying. You could negotiate up to a 50% discount if you discover a small scratch in the leather. Chances are you will get your own scratch on it in no time.
Luggage is another item that is often price adjusted due to small imperfections (as long as it is not hardware related). Let’s face it, one trip through an airport and our luggage is going to look slightly worn anyway.
Other items that adjustments are often made on include:
* Shoes
* Sporting goods (such as baseball gloves)
* Small appliances
* Artwork
* Clothing with makeup or small stains
* Clothing with small rips along seams
* Items without the proper packaging
* Showroom furniture and accessories
The important thing to remember when purchasing imperfect merchandise is that if the imperfection affects performance, then it is not a good deal. However, if it is just a matter of turning the scratch to the wall, buffing some oil onto leather, or bleaching out a stain, then chances are, its money well spent.
The Importance of Selecting the Right Store
Paying the right price for something is only part of what is involved in smart shopping. Selecting the right store to make your purchase from is equally as important.
When shopping for the right store, consider things such as:
* Will my item be delivered on time?
* What are the stores return policies?
* Do they guarantee the lowest price?
* Do they accept other stores coupons?
Sometimes these things, in the end, will save you more money then just the price of an item.
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