Appliances and Electronics
Consumers can save hundreds by haggling over the cost of big-ticket items like appliances and electronics. Many retailers offer “scratch and dent” sales or deep discounts on floor models, returns, and overstocks. Even though these items may already be discounted, start negotiating at 20 percent off the asking price to cut a better deal. You can set a deal in motion by asking for an item that is not in stock, such as a stainless steel refrigerator, and then “settling” for a different finish at a discounted price. It’s also smart to inquire about a discount on a “bundle,” such as a washer/dryer set or a TV/DVD player. According to the Consumer Reports study, 94 percent of people who haggled for appliances and 89 percent who tried to bargain on electronics were successful at least once, and they saved an average of $200.