How to Get Discounts While Shopping
An easy guide in getting a discount while shopping at second hand stores, including cars. I worked in a second hand store for seven years and know all the ins and outs for what second hand dealers can do for discounting sales. Here is a look at how to pay less for what you want.
Second hand stores are able to give a discount on second hand goods for two main reasons. Firstly, they tend to buy an item for much less than it is actually worth. Something you sold to a second hand store would get twice as much or more if you sold it on eBay. Secondly, their actual recommended retail price is usually more than double what they paid. Their goal is to sell the item for twice what they paid.
Tip: When second hand stores buy goods, they rarely check to see what it is worth new but value an item on what they think they can sell it for.
How to Get a Discount?
Before you start shopping, it is always a good idea to look at how much an item is brand new. Ideally, you’ll want to pay between 55% to 65% of what it is worth new. Second hand stores aren’t perfect and some items have been known to sell for more than if it was bought new. This way you have something to use in the bargaining process.
Next, thoroughly check out the item for any imperfections, even the tiniest scratch, dent or mark. If it’s an electrical item, get one of the sales people to test it out with you for a while to prove it works. Note anything wrong with it.
Tip: Any imperfections will reduce the price as it isn’t in as good a condition to a new item.
Next decide how much you would be willing to pay for it. If it has numerous imperfections than it will be worth less.
Ask the person how much they can sell it to you for and show them every imperfection. The idea here is to get the sales person on your side in viewing it as a poor quality item. They may say to you “how much do you want to offer”. If they do, offer less than what you think it is worth. There’ll be a back-and-forth price war but don’t go over what you think it is worth.
Tip: Every second hand item can be discounted at least 10% to 15%.
If they aren’t going to your realistic price then ask them to talk to their manager/supervisor. With most sales, the manager will not want any customer to leave the store without buying something. Chances are he will give you a larger discount and you will get your item.
Tip: Offer to pay in cash – that is worth more than a credit card.
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