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TechnoratiIntroduction
There are three lessons you must learn to get the best deals. We’ll first cover these lessons then spend some time looking at some very specific ways to save.
These three lessons are really quite simple, yet may take some time to learn. I first learned these from Dave Ramsey ( www.daveramsey.com ).
First, you must be willing to try to negotiate. You can’t be afraid to ask for a bargain. As you negotiate,
• Always tell the absolute truth—don’t sacrifice your integrity for a deal.
• Use the power of cash—don’t be afraid to walk around with cash for fear of getting mugged. You’ve been getting mugged at the mall for years!
• Be willing to walk away
• Learn to ask then “shut up”—wait for an answer before making a second offer.
• Be bold enough to say, “That’s not good enough” when you get your answer and it’s not the one you want.
• Talk with the boss—if the salesman “can’t” give you the deal you want, thank them, then ask to speak to their supervisor.
• Consider attaching something else to the deal—If you can’t get the price you want on the dishes, ask for a small set of glasses, etc.
The second lesson you must learn to get great deals is to have patience. Be willing to check other deal locations for similar products. Don’t fall in love with a particular purchase.
Finally, to get the best deals, you must know where to go to get the best deals. For most kinds of purchases, you can get valuable advice and comparisons on the Internet. Ask a librarian or friends which Internet sites they think are helpful, or you can use a search engine like Google or Yahoo. Be aware that information you find is often biased. At many websites, the only products or sellers listed are ones that pay to advertise. Before buying anything on the Internet, check several websites and make sure you deal with reputable dealers.
Transportation
Airline Fares
* Compare low-cost carriers with major carriers that fly to your destination. Remember, the best fares may not be out of the airport closest to you.
* You may save by including a Saturday evening stay-over or by purchasing the ticket at least 14 days in advance. Ask which days of the week and times of the day have the lowest fare.
* Even if you are using a travel agent, check airline and Internet travel sites, and look for special deals. If you call, always ask for the lowest fare to your destination.
Car Rental
* Since car rental rates can vary greatly, compare total price (including taxes and surcharge) and take advantage of any special offers and membership discounts.
* Rental car companies offer various insurance and waiver options. Check with your automobile insurance agent and credit card company in advance to avoid duplicating any coverage you may already have.
New Cars
* You can save thousands of dollars over the lifetime of a car by selecting a model that combines a low purchase price with low depreciation, financing, insurance, gasoline, maintenance, and repair costs. Ask your local librarian for new car guides that contain this information.
* Having selected a model and options you are interested in, you can save hundreds of dollars by comparison shopping. Get price quotes from several dealers (over the phone or Internet) and let each know you are contacting the others. Continue »
