Comments on: How to Haggle Prices

on 6/10/2008 I really don't haggle. I will ask nicely if I can get a discount on a more expensive item if it is out of my range. I shop antiques, not flea markets. Just be nice! Everyone is trying to make a living. Have respect!

on 8/8/2006 Even when shopping online it is still possible to haggle if you pick up the phone or email. Small to medium sized e-tailers are more likely to haggle.
Join a haggling community (they do exist) where people help each other to find and haggle better deals.

on 3/11/2006 Even when shopping online, it is still possible to haggle if you pick up the phone or send an e-mail.
Small to medium sized E-tailers are more likely to haggle.
Join a haggling community (they do exist) where people help each other find and haggle better deals.

on 12/30/2005 You could always point out (if it is the case) that: "This is the first time of probably many more future transactions. So as a goodwill gesture could you consider a discount please?" It worked for me once!!

on 11/22/2005 While trying to bring a vendor down to your price, remind them of any flaws the product might have and try to persuade them by saying things like "if I were you I'd take it", and at the same time show them that amount in cash. This will persuade the vendor into believing it's a good deal.

on 11/22/2005 Take the time to learn the dialect, especially if you ARE chinese. Once, I managed to get a coke for about 1 RMB (12 cents, approximately) ^_^ It shows that you care, and they trust you more, and also, they think you're one of the locals and they can't trick you into paying more than an item is worth. Also, if you are a tourist, try not to wear too much fancy jewelry or stuff...It shows that you are rich and have lots of money.

on 11/22/2005 Carry one large weatherproof bag with pockets to hold all of your supplies, including water, and there will be plenty of room to stash all of your finds!
Keep valuables well hidden in your clothing pockets to avoid pickpockets.

on 11/22/2005 Don't "let the excitement of haggling overpower your better judgment and lead you" to buy something you don't want or don't need.

on 11/22/2005 This will get the seller more interested in trying to convince you about the product, its features and price etc. As a result, he or she will want to trend downward with the price so as to get you interested.

on 11/22/2005 Have the cash in your hand and ask if they will take, for example, $20. Extend your arm out towards the seller so they catch sight of the cash. Usually when they see the cash, they will take it rather than have you put it back in your pocket!!

on 11/22/2005 Retail is not a tag sale. Typically we don't mind discounting damaged items, but we have limits. If a discount's offered, accept it. Arguing only makes it less likely for you to get what you want. We know what's repairable. Nice to us, we're nice to you.

on 11/22/2005 Wait until late in the sale, and make your offer in cash. I do this at major jewelry sales and it always works! You usually don't even have to pay sales tax.

on 11/22/2005 Many flea market booths have no prices posted. I was told by a dealer/friend that they look at what you are wearing, jewelry, etc. and then price based on what they think you'll pay. I dress neatly, but not fancy and find I get better prices.

on 11/22/2005 Although haggling is expected, be prepared to purchase the item if you inquire about it. Otherwise, the vendor, especially a street vendor, feels disrespected once you show interest and then decide against purchasing it.

on 11/22/2005 I've found that many merchants will quit trying to sucker you in if they know you know how much this item really costs. Try saying that you saw the same item in another shop for X$ and that their offer is way too much. You'll probably just get it for X$.