How to bag a bargain: Don't be so British... haggle
Haggling is not a very British thing to do, but as household finances are squeezed, more consumers are keen to get a bargain.
Retailers are also struggling as household spending is curbed, so now is a good time to get discounts. Here are some top tips:
1. Always haggle on car prices, particularly second-hand ones. Eight out of ten consumers say they never accept the forecourt price. Be confident, show you know what you're talking about and use some charm - it might just work.
2. It is often possible to negotiate a discount on jewellery and electrical items, especially if you are buying more than one. Try for at least a 10% discount. Use internet sites, such as pricegrabber.co.uk, to search for the cheapest price, then use the information to bargain with the retailer.
3. Try haggling when buying furniture and household items, though this is tricky in High Street stores. However, discounts may be available for ex-display items.
4. Mobile phones, broadband services and insurance are other areas where you can haggle, though this usually works only when an existing customer is threatening to leave to go to a competitor. Ask your provider to better any new quotes. 5. Students and pensioners can often get discounts. Ask if it is not obvious what reductions are available.
Haggling is not a very British thing to do, but as household finances are squeezed, more consumers are keen to get a bargain.
Retailers are also struggling as household spending is curbed, so now is a good time to get discounts. Here are some top tips:
1. Always haggle on car prices, particularly second-hand ones. Eight out of ten consumers say they never accept the forecourt price. Be confident, show you know what you're talking about and use some charm - it might just work.
2. It is often possible to negotiate a discount on jewellery and electrical items, especially if you are buying more than one. Try for at least a 10% discount. Use internet sites, such as pricegrabber.co.uk, to search for the cheapest price, then use the information to bargain with the retailer.
3. Try haggling when buying furniture and household items, though this is tricky in High Street stores. However, discounts may be available for ex-display items.
4. Mobile phones, broadband services and insurance are other areas where you can haggle, though this usually works only when an existing customer is threatening to leave to go to a competitor. Ask your provider to better any new quotes. 5. Students and pensioners can often get discounts. Ask if it is not obvious what reductions are available.
Comment