One Street, One Goal: Haggling
Post categories: One Street One Goal,Ìýmoney
| 16:50 UK time, Monday, 21 June 2010
Everyone likes a bargain, especially when you're buying costly things like fridges, televisions, or even cars. But how do you know if you're getting the best deal? This week, we'll be helping one family drive down the price of a new car with a little help from their neighbours.
Street resident Luke Chater currently pays around £180 a month for his mini. He wants to trade it in and cut down on his running costs.
The Chater's neighbour, Rob is always on the look-out for a good deal. He never accepts the price he sees on the ticket. When he recently refurbished his kitchen he managed to get over £5,000 off the price of the white goods advertised in the shop.
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The Chater's neighbour, Rob is always on the look-out for a good deal. He never accepts the price he sees on the ticket. When he recently refurbished his kitchen he managed to get over £5,000 off the price of the white goods advertised in the shop.
So, Luke took Rob shopping for a new car. At the end of their first day's haggling, they found that they could get at least £500 pounds off the initial price for the car that Luke wants.
Luke reflected on what he's learnt so far: "I think to be more assertive. To tell the salespeople exactly what I want - instead of the other way around."
Here are Rob's top tips for striking a bargain when you're shopping:
1. Do your homework
Research - for example, if you're shopping for a car like Luke, read up on car matters in trade magazines and on the internet. Find out what you'd be happy with. If you're not confident, bring a friend.
2. Be courteous, not confrontational
Always be polite and courteous to the seller. You may have to put up with a grumpy person to a certain extent, but if they're consistently rude, walk away.
3. Follow your instincts
If something feels wrong, chances are it is. If the seller's not right, the car won't be.
4. Be jovial when haggling
Always put in an offer lower than you intend to pay. Think of it as a game! Don't feel embarrassedÌýthat you mightÌýinsult them - they won't tell you to go away, they'll make you an offer instead.
5. Turn the tables
Make a counter-offer if you're offered a weak price. For example, "Well, if you can knock the price down to £3,000, then maybe we'll have a deal."
6. Push the deal
"That's the best price I can do." When you hear this, ignore it and change the subject. Ask them for their best price again. If it's not lower, tell them you're not sure and might look elsewhere first.
Before you leave, ask them to give you a better price.ÌýSay you can pay right away and take the car away today. By the third objection, you'll usually seal the deal.
Are you a successful haggler? Let us know your tips below.
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