the art of haggling

Did you know that at one time in this country there were no fixed prices for anything? You would go to a store and find an item you need and then start the process of negotiating the price. This may seem strange to us today, but it used to be the rule. I’ll talk more about the history of price negotiation in this country in a later article, but today I want to give you some tips on how to negotiate well.

For starters, you can negotiate the price of almost any item today. You’d be surprised how many stores would be happy to talk to you about a price reduction, but before we get to the negotiating techniques, we need to remember a few simple negotiating rules.

First of all, never negotiate the price of an item that you do not intend to buy. It is unfair to the seller and to other buyers who are serious about buying. Second, be reasonable and not greedy. The seller needs to make a profit to stay in business, so don’t make outrageous price-cutting demands. It will be easier to work with him if he thinks you’re fair and not just trying to trick him. Third, be patient and courteous at all times. Remember that your goal is to get the best deal possible, so go slowly enough that the seller thinks you really care about the item in question.

Now let’s move on to trading techniques. If you take my advice and go slow, this part will be much sooner. Ask the seller about the item and let him tell you what he knows. Show genuine interest in the article, and if you’re not as interested after he’s told you, thank him for his time and say goodbye. Most sellers will appreciate this approach more than an abrupt exit, and also remember to always ask for some form of card so you can be sure who you spoke to in case you want to look at the item again. If after I’ve shown you the item and you’re still interested, clarify the sale price.

Occasionally the seller will allow a modest discount with a request as simple as “Is that as low as you can afford?” from his part. If the seller offers a price reduction and it’s right for you, complete the transaction and walk away. If the seller needs someone else to approve a price reduction, wait patiently for it to arrive.

Don’t appear to be impatient or irritated. When the person who can offer you a price reduction arrives, be sure to immediately thank them for taking the time to help you. Ask them about it and remember that they are not aware of what you have discussed with the other person. So don’t assume they are aware of what you are requesting. Do not use complaints as the basis of your request and use the same approach you used with the other person. If you can agree on a price, then you walk away happy and have made a sale.

But suppose you can’t get the reduction you want, then thank them for their help and ask if the item may be available at a lower price in the future. This lets them know that you are interested in the item and not just trying to get something for nothing. Finally remember that not every attempt will be successful and you don’t have to get a discount on everything you buy. So choose your items carefully and be consistent. You will be surprised how many things you can buy at a reduced price. I hope you have the best of luck in the future as you use these simple rules.

PS I’ve used them and they work Steve.