How to Get the Best Price on a New Computer

When a retailer makes only $50 on a $1,000 computer and a commissioned salesperson makes $10 if the computer is sold at that price, how can you get a good deal?

Things You'll Need

• Computers

Instructions

1. Use Internet search engines called "shopping bots" that find the lowest prices on specific products.

2. Be aware that advertised prices for current model computers are usually regular prices, not sale prices.

3. Study the market to learn fair prices for specific products. Understand the retailer's perspective if you try to negotiate a lower price.

4. Ask for a discount of $100 to $200 on a complete package: computer, monitor, printer, service contract and accessories.

5. Buy a prebuilt system rather than choosing your own parts.

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.

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.

8. Look for manufacturers' rebates that don't require you to purchase the same brand of monitor and/or printer.

9. Buy a poorly rated brand if you are not concerned about speed or longevity.

10. Buy a clearance model if your needs are basic.

11. Consider refurbished or repaired units of current or recent models.

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.

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.

14. Avoid consumer model brands, other than eMachines, if price is an overriding consideration.

Tips & Warnings

• Understand that many honest retailers will never negotiate or discount a price. Some sellers will negotiate if a "win-win" situation is possible. Be prepared to offer something of benefit to the retailer.

• Remember to add shipping charges before comparing prices from Internet and other mail-order retailers.

• Ask about return policies and restocking fees when considering a computer that isn't sold new in a box.

• All stores usually have the same prices on consumer models.

• Understand that price differences between brands are a reflection of build-quality, parts-quality and marketing costs.

• Never expect a discount on a low-end item.

• Make sure you get a warranty on a computer that isn't sold new in a box.

• Be aware that moderately priced and cheap computers may contain used or refurbished parts.