Going shopping soon? Take a few minutes beforehand to explore the options for finding the best sales of the day.
But many of us lead hectic lives and to save time, we'll pick up the first thing we find, no matter the cost. While that may work on an occasional basis, why not set aside a few minutes to plan a shopping trip so you can find and take advantage of the best sale?
1. Watch the newspaper ads. Long before you plan to go shopping, start keeping an eye on the major store ads where you do most of your purchasing. From groceries to appliances and clothes, get a sense of where the deals are and when they are likely to occur. For example, many large department stores offer end-of-season clearance prices on much of their inventory. For a final weekend sale it is not unusual to see items advertised at 85 percent off the original price with another ten percent newspaper coupon. Those stores are almost giving things away! Once you know who, where, and when, you can plan on doing your seasonal shopping there at the next big event. As your shopping day approaches, clip coupons and keep them in your wallet for an after-work quick stop.
2. Listen to radio and television commercials. Since these cost big bucks, stores typically feature their best sales via these audio media. Tune in to local stations as your shopping expedition draws near, and keep your ears peeled for the familiar jingle or motto of a brand-name store. Note the times and dates of the sale and go during the extended hours if possible to avoid the usual sales rush of customers.
3. Browse print materials. If you enjoy catalog shopping, leaf through the latest mailing to see when the next sale is coming up. Then pull out the order form or make a notation on your calendar to visit their online store on that date. Check your favorite magazine for coupons that can be used at national chains. These will further increase the savings of sales shopping.
4. Window shop for fun and profit. Whenever you're in the area, check out he window signs and displays to see what kind of sale is coming up. These often draw customers with promises of fifty to ninety percent off selected merchandise. While you are likely to find end of season clearance items, you can always put them away for next year. Ask sales staff when the next sale is scheduled to run. Sometimes they receive advance notice and can let you know.
5. Look for seconds, returns, and slightly damaged goods. If you don't require perfection, you can increase your savings by selecting merchandise with slight flaws or imperfections. If you find something on the shelf or a rack that has a stain, tear, missing button, or loose thread, ask the sales assistant if it comes with a discount. Smaller stores that are not part of a retail chain may be willing to bargain if you pay cash up front by giving you an extra five percent discount.
If you plan to open a credit card account with a well-known company, you can often get an extra ten to twenty percent discount on purchases for that day. Coordinate your account application with a shopping need.
Shopping can be work or fun, depending on your point of view. But everyone loves a sale. Make it a game to outwit the crafty price tags by getting the lowest possible price.
