Who does not want to get the best deal for their dollar — especially during these
tough economic times? There is no shortage of sale ads from merchants who want your
business: they are using preferred customer specials, early bird sales, midnight
madness events, coupon savings days, and pre- AND post-holiday sales. Just how do
you decide if their deals are real? EmeritusLiving is here to provide you smart
shopping suggestions, which will immediately make you the smartest shopper on your
block.
Tips to Help You Get the Most for Your Money
Shop Around - A "sale" price is not always the "best" price. Some merchants
may offer a sale price on an item for a limited time; others may discount the price
on the same item every day. Having an item's manufacturer, model number, and other
identifying information can help you get the best price for the item you want.
Read Sale Ads Carefully - Some may say "quantities limited," "no rain checks,"
or "not available at all stores." Before you step out the door, call ahead to make
sure the merchant has the item in stock. If you are shopping for a popular or hard-to-find
item, ask the merchant if he would be willing to hold the item until you can get
to the store.
Take Time and Travel Costs into Consideration - If an item is on sale, but
its way across town, how much are you really saving once you factor in your time,
your transportation, and parking?
Look for Price-matching Policies - Some merchants will match, or even beat,
a competitor's prices — at least for a limited time. Read the merchant's pricing
policy. It may not apply to all items.
Go Online - Check out websites that compare prices for items offered online.
Some sites also may compare prices offered at stores in your area. If you decide
to buy online, keep shipping costs and delivery time in mind.
Beware of Bargains - Calculate bargain offers that are based on purchases
of additional merchandise. For example, "buy one, get one free," "free gift with
purchase," or "free shipping with minimum purchase" may sound enticing. If you do
not really want or need the item, it is not a deal.
Ask About Sale Adjustments - If you buy an item at regular price and it goes
on sale the next week, can you get a credit or refund for the discounted amount?
What documentation will you need?
Ask About Refund and Return Policies For Sale Items. Merchants often have
different refund and return policies for sale items, especially clearance merchandise.
We invite you visit out Leisure for more smart shopping suggestions.
