How to Haggle and Negotiate Good Deals

The art of haggling is something that comes naturally to some people; others are a bit more timid and have to work at it. But learning to haggle can save you a lot of money.

It's not only the high ticket items like cars, TV's or furniture that you can haggle over. You can usually get a lower price on anything if you're willing to ask, know who to talk to, and know a few tricks of the trade.

There is a product I regularly buy that normally costs 50 cents each. I recently found them on clearance for 14 cents each. I convinced the manager to let me have them for 5 cents each by offering to buy the entire box. It was a win-win. I saved money and he moved product out of his store.

Never pass up a chance to try and get a better priced deal on something you need but simply can't afford without a discounted price. All the person or business can do is say no. But many times they will say yes and you will walk away with extra money in your pocket!

Here are some tips on how to haggle for a lower price on goods or services. In no time you'll be a pro and negotiating for a better deal will become second nature to you.

KNOW WHO TO TALK TO

Usually a sales person can't lower a price, but it doesn't hurt to ask. If they can't help ask if they could they please get a manager for you. Asking for a manager is especially important if you are shopping in a store where the sales people get paid off commission. A manager can normally be more concerned with customer loyalty and satisfaction, whereas a sales person might only be thinking about the lost commission. If the manager can't help, ask if there is anyone available in a higher up position you can talk to. NOTE: Never try to haggle at a long check-out line. Go to customer service or ask for a manager and then step aside while you wait so the person in line behind doesn't have to be held up.

BE CONFIDENT

There is no reason to be nervous or shy when negotiating for a better price on a product. You're not doing anything wrong; in fact, you're protecting your bank account by not spending more than your budget allows. Think of yourself as a savvy consumer when haggling for a better price. Trust me; you are not the only person out there doing this very same thing.

DON'T BE RUDE

Haggling can be a fun give-and-take game. There is no reason to be loud or get angry if the seller can't or won't bargain with you. Keep a smile on your face and pick a quite out of the way place to haggle whenever possible.

DO HOMEWORK BEFORE SHOPPING

Do some comparison shopping online before you go out to make your purchase. Find what the cheapest rates are in your area for similar items and determine a price you are willing to pay. Print out ads from a competitor and take them with you. Check out store policies on competitor price matching. Most stores will meet or beat prices on competitor prices, so ask whoever you are haggling with what they can do to keep you from buying from XYZ store instead of them. You'll be surprised what kind of deals you will get. NOTE: Do not get overzealous and ask for ridiculous price reductions. Be realistic and have a price in mind. If they can't meet it then thank them for their time and walk away.

MAKE COUNTER OFFERS

Make counter offers and suggestions such as asking if you buy the floor model will they knock off 20 percent. Also ask if the item will be going on sale any time soon. Ask if you pay in cash will they knock off a percentage. Point out any flaws such as small nicks, stains, or dents and ask for a discount based on the flaw.

BE PATIENT

If the seller isn't meeting your price then use a stalling tactic such as being silent or contemplating other makes and models of the same item you're interested in. Chances are that while you are stalling the seller will come up with a way to get your business. Tell them you are going to make a purchase today somewhere and would really like to buy from them if they can do something to lower the price. If things still aren't going well, don't be afraid to name the price you want to pay and ask if there is any way they can meet it.

BE PREPARED TO WALK AWAY

You will not get the deal you want every time. So be prepared to walk away. If you've tried all of your tricks and the manager or sales person won't budge, then it's time to either pay full price or go elsewhere.