How to Get the Best Deals on Big Purchases

Do you plan on making big purchases soon?

Are you hoping to find the best deals?

Now is the perfect time to start putting away your cash for a large purchase because many stores will be holding fall and holiday sales.

But to get the most bang for your buck you should consider a few other tips. These pointers will help you find the best possible combination of deals that will lead to major savings.

So read on before you head to the store or click the check out button on your cart.

1. Sleep on the purchase.

Don’t ever purchase something from the very first store that you see it in. Even if it’s a unique item that appears to be sold in one specific store, there’s always a possibility that you can find something relatively similar for less money.

I personally fell in love with an industrial style coffee table that I doubted I could find anywhere else except a certain high end furniture retailer. Yet with some browsing I found almost the same product at a much lower price sold at a different discount furniture store.

Look high and low before making a big purchase to ensure you’re not spending more money than necessary.

2. Use retail associates.

Nothing’s worse than buying a product that goes on sale a few months later. Many stores offer the option of rain checks or price adjustments within a certain time frame after a purchase is made. But if purchased too soon before a sale you may not qualify for the deal.

Ask associates about their yearly promotions to avoid jumping the gun on a big purchase. Retail stores typically offer the same sales at the same time each year. So associates can give you a pretty good idea of when a sale will come up and how you can take advantage of it. This way you can create a savings plan for a large purchase leading up to a sale.

3. Play your cards close.

On top of sales or coupons you should try negotiating for additional savings for big purchases. You never know what discounts a store can offer unless you ask. First, go into a store and let store clerks think that you’re “just browsing.” Don’t let them know that you’re looking for anything in particular or that you’re intending to leave the store with a big purchase.

Then feel the store out on their flexibility with pricing. Ask them what their best possible deal on your intended purchase is and if you feel comfortable offer to buy it for a lower price.

What’s the worst that can happen? Many of us miss out on an opportunity to save cash by simply not asking.

4. Know when to walk away.

It’s frustrating when you really want something and can’t find the right deal. But you can’t back down. Set a price that you feel comfortable spending before you start shopping and stick to it. Salespeople are trained at selling and up-selling you on the value of a product even it’s outside of your price range. Don’t fall for it.

If a store can’t meet your price, walk away and give it some time. Every retail item goes on sale eventually. With some patience you’ll find the item that you’re looking for at a price you can afford. And you’ll feel pretty satisfied with yourself when you do!

Do you have any more advice for finding deals on large purchases? Have you found a deal on a big purchase that you’re particularly proud of? Share it with us!