Mastering the Art of Haggling: Tips and Tricks for Bargain Hunting

Haggling for a bargain is an art that can save you money and get you the best deal on the things you want to buy.

As expert negotiator Derek Arden advises in his book "Win Win, How to get a winning result from Persuasive Negotiations" it's important to do your research and be prepared before you start negotiating.

One of the first things to consider is where you can find the item you want to buy. Searching online can be a quick and easy way to compare prices and find the best deals. The more information you have about the prices of different items, the better position you will be in to negotiate a discount.

It's also helpful to consider the profit margins of the store you're shopping in. Stores that have higher margins, such as furniture and clothing stores, may be more able to offer discounts than stores with lower margins, such as electronics stores.

Timing is also key when it comes to haggling. During quieter times of the year, such as outside of the Christmas and sale periods, salespeople may be more willing to make a deal to make a sale.

When negotiating, aim to build a rapport with the salesperson. Start by making small talk and asking them how they are doing. Show them that you are interested in making a purchase, but make it clear that you are considering other options and may walk away if you don't get the deal you want.

Use soft language when asking for a discount, such as "Is there anything you can do to help me with the price?" or "This is more than I was expecting to pay." Smile and be assertive, but be prepared to wait for a response and hold the silence if necessary.

If the salesperson offers a discount, don't be afraid to ask for more or request something extra, such as batteries or accessories, be thrown in for free.

Remember that not every negotiation will result in a discount, but if you don't ask, you won't get. Haggling takes practice, but with a little bit of preparation and confidence, you can save money and get the best deal on the things you want to buy. So, always remember to ask for a discount – you never know, you might just get it!

Here are some additional tips for haggling for a bargain:

1. Know your limits: Before you start negotiating, have a clear idea of how much you are willing to pay for the item you want. This will help you stay within your budget and avoid overpaying.
2. Be flexible: If you are willing to compromise on certain aspects of the item, such as the colour or the brand, you may be able to get a better deal.
3. Use cash: Many merchants are willing to offer discounts to customers who pay with cash, as it saves them the fees associated with credit card transactions.
4. Look for defects or damage: If you notice any defects or damage to the item you want to buy, use it to your advantage and negotiate a lower price.
5. Use social media to your advantage: Retailers have a presence on social media platforms, such as Facebook and Twitter. If you can't get a discount in-store, try reaching out to the company on social media to see if they are willing to offer a deal.
6. Don't be afraid to walk away: If the seller is unwilling to meet your price, don't be afraid to walk away. There may be other options available, and it's better to walk away from a deal than to overpay for something.

With these tips in mind, you can become a skilled negotiator and get the best deal on the things you want to buy.

Happy haggling!