How to comparison shop
Posted by pennywisesnob on November 24, 2008
Ok, how many times have you decided you needed something, given into temptation, driven to the mall, and picked up the first instance of that item that you saw? Maybe you’re a savvy shopper – you wait for the sale, or bring in a coupon. Maybe you buy the store brand, but there is more you can do, and it’s easy. First decide if what you are buying is unique enough that generic just won’t do. High end electronics that you expect to use for years, especially anything with attachments or add-ons are probably worth getting brand name, but don’t forget to check for after market add-ons. Canned beets – definitely generic.
Then go online. If it’s a big ticket item you’re probably already reading reviews, so take a moment to check out discount sites such as overstock.com and woot.com. If buying books note that amazon.com and barnesandnobel.com often have very different prices on the same item.
Ready to shop? If you haven’t found your item online and you’re going shopping in person keep this in mind:
Higher end clothing stores flip their collections frequently and have sales all the time. If shopping at places like Ann Taylor or Jones NY check in about a month before you expect department stores to change their lines. For more exclusive boutiques ask to be added to their mailing list so you can hear about “special events.”
For electronics ask for more, especially if you’re spending a lot. Go in when it’s quiet and ask for perks. On phone plans this means a free or deeply discounted phone, on other things the manager can often knock off about 10% or beat their competitor’s best price.
