Things You'll Need:
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Step 1
Use Internet search engines called "shopping bots" that find the lowest prices on specific products.
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Step 2
Be aware that advertised prices for current model computers are usually regular prices, not sale prices.
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Step 3
Study the market to learn fair prices for specific products. Understand the retailer's perspective if you try to negotiate a lower price.
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Step 4
Ask for a discount of $100 to $200 on a complete package: computer, monitor, printer, service contract and accessories.
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Step 5
Buy a prebuilt system rather than choosing your own parts.
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Step 6
Look for long-term financing promotions, especially during the holiday season, typically six months "same as cash," which provide a discount in the form of interest savings.
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Step 7
Consider Internet service rebates (commonly $400) if you are willing to make a long-term financial commitment to analog Internet service from a national provider.
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Step 8
Look for manufacturers' rebates that don't require you to purchase the same brand of monitor and/or printer.
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Step 9
Buy a poorly rated brand if you are not concerned about speed or longevity.
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Step 10
Buy a clearance model if your needs are basic.
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Step 11
Consider refurbished or repaired units of current or recent models.
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Step 12
Save 5 percent to 20 percent on a last-of-a-kind floor model or a unit that has been returned in working condition by another customer.
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Step 13
Be aware that most chain retailers will give you a price adjustment (usually 100 percent to 150 percent of the price difference) if the price on a product is reduced within a week or two of purchase. Check policies.
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Step 14
Avoid consumer model brands, other than eMachines, if price is an overriding consideration.








Comments
Anonymous said
on 11/22/2005 The best site I have found for comparison shopping--www.pricewatch.com
Also provides phone numbers and web sites. Mike Kohut
Anonymous said
on 11/22/2005 Just remember, you do get what you pay for.
Anonymous said
on 11/22/2005 Check the brands of the video card, sound card, etc. in each computer you compare. Cheaper cards will bring price down but at the cost of performance.