Getting a Good Deal on Larger Purchases

I am convinced that I used to be the absolute worst haggler for getting a good deal. If a price was written down, I felt like it was "set in stone" and was non-negotiable. Usually, I would just walk away, without even trying, if the price wasn't right. Only recently have I learned that it is reasonable to negotiate to get a great deal.
My husband and I have waited 7 1/2 years to get a matching bedroom suite, since we had other financial priorities, thus far. We have learned to make do with mismatched dressers and no headboard/footboard. For about a year now, we have been actively searching Craigslist at least once a week, yet we hadn't found a decent set, at a price we wanted. Finally, a few days ago, we received a flier advertising a new, $699 solid wood, sleigh bedroom set. The price seemed fair, so we went to the store. We brought $700 with us, and were going to ask them to give it to us for $700 out the door. (taxes included) We ended up not liking the set in person, and we actually found a set that we liked better, for $599. We felt that was reasonable, since we had the cash for it. It was about $650, out the door, for a complete bedroom suite. Delaying this purchase ensured that we were very cautious about what we purchased, and we could really do our homework to find a great deall.


Helpful Tips for Getting a Good Deal:

1. Check Craigslist or Freecycle to see if you can find what you are looking for, at a great price.

2. Don't set your heart on an item, whether it is a house, car, furniture, etc.. Once you set your heart on something, you are usually more willing to pay a much higher price than you would have. Be emotionally detached enough from whatever you want to purchase, that you can walk away, if the price isn't right.

3. Whenever possible, pay with cash. Bring a certain amount , and make an offer that is reasonable to you. Businesses should be more willing to allow you to negotiate on a price when you are paying in cash. Considering our economy, most stores will negotiate to make a sale.

4. Carry competitor's ads and/or coupons. When we bought our bedroom set, at a furniture store, if the price wasn't right, we brought a competitor's coupon for 10% off. (Even Walmart accepts competitor's ads to price match.) If you see a nice set at the Ashley furniture store, call around to different local Ashley retailers to compete in getting you the best price.

What ways have you found to save on more expensive purchases? For more Frugal Fridays, visit Life as a Mom.