How to Save Hundreds By Asking

By Josh Smith

Don't you wish you could get discounts every time you shop? I can't help you save at Walmart, but I can tell you how to save big on almost any major purchase. Saving is actually really simple. You just have to ask for a better price. This is hard to do the fist few times, because we are so used to having other people tell is how much we should charge and how much we should pay, but after a few times it will be as natural as reaching for your debit card. I used this method to save $100 on a recent furniture purchase, just by asking for a cheaper price -- and that was on top of the already reduced clearance price.

How to Get a Better Deal by Asking:

Be Nice - When you go into the store, make friends with the sales person. This is as simple as repeating their name back to them when you say hello and ask how they are doing. Little things like this can go a long way, especially at the end of a busy day.

Bundle - If you need more that one thing find everything you want before you ask for a discount. This will help show you are willing to spend, you just want a better deal and allows the store to cut a price on a high margin item and still make a profit.

Be a Regular - For electronics, furniture and other items you will buy repeatedly, look for one local store to frequent. This may not be possible all the time due to low online prices, but it can help build a bond for bigger purchases.

Ask about Warranties - Stores make big bucks on extended warranties. If the sales staff thinks you are going to buy a high profit item like a warranty you may get a better deal. While purchasing furniture my discount was the same price as the warranty. Coincidence? I think not.

Ask Nicely - After you follow all the steps above, don't forget to ask nicely. A simple, "I know these items are already discounted, but can you bundle them or cut me a deal for buying more than one?" does wonders.

As you get more comfortable you can ask for discounts in a more straightforward manner. Remember, it never hurts to ask for a discount. It will feel weird the first time, but it is worth it in the long run. You will have the best luck at small businesses, but if you ask the right person at a chain store you can occasionally score a better deal if you bundle and play up your interest in the warranty.