Smart Shopping |
Let's face it... times are tough and becoming smart with our money is essential to getting by. You don't have to be dirt poor to be a smart shopper, everyone can gain by making the most of their pay check. There are two basic ways to save, become a bargaining buyer or buy when items are on sale. If these tips don't work, try some of the tips shared by our community!
Become a Bargaining Buyer
Most department stores do not bargain, the price that is listed is the one that you pay. If you don't someone else will. In this kind of store you might want to get out your creativitiy and find that calendar or product that has the smallest flaw and ask for a discount. In most cases, they will offer you a 10% discount.
If you really want to barter you should go to small stores or flee markets. You will have your best luck if you go in with small bills (you don't want to say I can only afford $10.00 if you need change for a $20). Don't get fooled into paying more than you can afford, set a limit and stick with it. A great line is "What is the absolutely lowest price you will give me on ....", "not how much is that..." By being assertive you won't get pushed around as easily.
If you are in an area where there are trade shows, you will get your best price on the final day of the show and near the end of the day. This goes for everything from Parenting shows, to Home Improvement shows.
Know What Goes On Sale When
Instead of racing around after the first snow fall for boots when everything is full price you should keep track of when things go on sale and buy during the sale. Here is a list we found in "The Book Of Secrets" but you may find the calendar looks a little different in your area.
| January | February |
|---|---|
|
|
| March | April |
|
|
| May | June |
|
|
| July | August |
|
|
| September | October |
|
|
| November | December |
|
|
CPO Smart Shopping Tips
- Things are only a bargain if you need it!
- It's only a bargain if you can pay for it!
- Don't use credit cards
- If you use a credit card keep track of the total and pay it off monthly
- Buy irregulars
- Buy at second hand stores, children's 2nd hand stores are becoming very popular, you can take your old stuff in and make money for some items that will fit instead of storing items that are too small.
- Buy second hand toys
- Use a toy lending library
