There are tricks that consumers can use to save money, but stores hate us for it. Here are some of my favorite thrifty purchasing tips. To see the complete list, visit The Consumerist.
Buying Loss Leaders and Leaving: Stores put these buy 1 get 1 free offers on the front of the sales flyer to lure you in. They’re hoping and expecting that once you’re there, you’ll do the rest of your shopping. If you just buy these items, then they’re losing money.
Using Credit and Paying it Off on Time: Stores don’t offer you 0% financing for 6 months to help you out. They do this because they know that most people will slip up at some point during the 6 month period and they will be charged the entire interest. These deals can be dangerous. You must abide by their terms or pay the price. Pay attention and make sure your payments are received on time.
Saying NO to Extended Warranties: Extended warranties are a huge money maker for stores. Unless it’s a big ticket item that you can’t afford to replace, you shouldn’t buy an extended warranty. Babies ‘R Us tried to talk me into an extended warranty on my carseat. I mean, really, what can go wrong with a carseat? So far, buying the extended warranty on our computers has been a smart choice for us, although my husband would recommend buying the warranty through the company and not through the store you bought the computer from (What a hassle!).
Activating Your Own Cell Phone with a Cell Phone Company: My hubby and I have done this many times. Just last month, we bought a new razor for me because my other phone locked up. We paid about $120 for my phone on e-bay, rather than getting a free phone with an additional 2 years tacked on to our contract. Without extending my contract, the phone would have cost about $275 through the company.
Buying 1 when it’s 2 for $5: Just because something says 2/$5 or 10/$10 doesn’t mean you have to buy that many (unless specifically specified in the ad). Some grocery stores, such as Lowe’s Foods, will let you have BOGO items at 1/2 price. Just get what you need.
Buying Seasonal Items at Clearance Prices for Next Year: Seasonal items make retailers a good deal of money. When the season is over, these stores must make room for new merchandise. This is your chance to take advantage of low prices.
What kinds of offers do you take advantage of?
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