I found a website that actually teaches one how to haggle. It’s aptly named howtohaggle.com. I always thought that haggling was reserved for the flea market. According to How to Haggle, I was wrong. The websites lists a variety of places where it’s acceptable to haggle for a better price. Large Electronic Stores for instance (I wish I’d known that when I bought my TV). Since employees at these stores are working on commission it’s easier to get a better price. Department stores are another acceptable place to haggle. Especially if you’re making a large purchase, like furniture, it’s acceptable to ask for a discounted price. Or, if the item that you are purchasing is imperfect or damaged it’s reasonable to ask for a discount.

Here are some haggling tips I found listed on various sites…

1. Ask for the store manager or owner. They have the authority to give you a discount.

2. Look for imperfect items. You can usually get 10 percent to 20 percent off.

3. Ask about discount or coupons

4. Don’t think you can’t haggle on already discounted items and get an even better deal.

5. Be discreet, don’t broadcast to other shoppers that you’re getting a deal

6. Compare prices before shopping. If you’re not happy, walk away. You can get it someplace else.

7. Offer to pay cash so they don’t have to pay a credit card transaction fee. 

Check these links for more information on haggling…

How to Haggle

The Fashionable Housewife: Finding Hidden Deals

The Consumerist: How to Haggle 

I’ve never haggled! Frankly, I’m not sure I’d feel comfortable trying to get a price that’s not advertised. Have you ever haggled? Does it work? Leave your stories and suggestions below…