More Bang for Your Buck: Always negotiate

(WSVN) Shopping can be hard work, especially when you're looking for those great bargains. But if you know how to negotiate, you'll never have to pay full price again.

Steve Cohen got 2 free ties when he bought a jacket. George Weber saved more than 50% on beds.

George Weber, haggling expert, says, "3 beds for $450, frames and 2 mattresses, they listed for $1,000.00."

What sounds like a good sale, is really a good haggle.

"I just said this item is a little higher than what I budgeted for a bed. Can you help me out on the price?"

George saves thousands of dollars by negotiating the price on everything from furniture to appliances, to jewelry to artwork.

"I have actually been successful in negotiating at big stores."

Steve also has a similar strategy to stay within his budget. Steve Cohen, The Negotiation Skills Company, says, "I was a little shell shocked by the price." He told the manager he was surprised at the price of the jacket, so the manager threw in 2 free ties. "I said '...the price has really gone up big time' and he said 'let me see what I can do to make it a little less unpleasant for you.'"

George and Steve also know timing is everything. Many stores have reacted to the slumping economy by lowering their cost overhead, leaving room for negotiations.

"We will do anything from 10% to 50% it really depends on the piece."

So how do you do it? Our experts say be subtle...

"I said is there anything you can do to make it less burdensome to buy it at this price. So you want to ask can you make this appealing to me instead of saying I want a certain amount."

Also, remember to have a plan. Like saying it's more than you budgeted for and asking for a better price. Also, don't be shy. Ask for the sale price even if it's not on sale yet.

Other hints: offer to buy more than one item to get a better deal. Comparison shop, know what other stores are offering on the same product and go to someone who can make a decision like the store manager.

So, if you're still not convinced about this way of cutting costs, remember this: it doesn't hurt to ask.

FOR MORE INFORMATION:

http://www.negotiationskills.com

(Copyright 2002 Sunbeam Television Corp. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)