The math is simple. The less you pay for things you want and need, the more money you will have to buy other stuff. It therefore makes sense to use all the frugal shopping tips you can every time you buy anything. Despite this, a surprising number of people just go to the store and purchase the first thing they see.
Research
Decide what you want to buy before you buy it. Don't just go to the store with a vague idea what you want. Investigate the pros and cons of an item. Determine the brand and model that is the best value for your needs. Find out the average price so you can tell if you are getting a good deal.
List
Make a list of what you need before you go shopping. This applies to everything from groceries to electronics to Christmas presents. Spontaneous purchases tend to be poor values. Make all your frugal shopping decisions before you leave home, and you will reduce your chances of making a poor decision. Never shop for groceries when you are hungry or for luxury goods when you have lots of money in your wallet.
Budget
Establish a price limit and stick to it. This ensures you do not pay more than you anticipate. If the item is more than your limit, just walk away and seek an alternative. Try to never carry a balance on a credit card. Paying interest on a credit card adds costs to every purchase.
Coupons
Coupons are offered on just about everything. Always check to see if one is available for your purchase. Ask the store if they have any coupons and perform a simple Internet search. Even online purchase prices can be reduced easily with coupon codes available online.
Discounts
It is surprisingly easy to get a discount. Many stores will give you one simply because you ask for one. It helps if you can claim that the product is defective in some way or that service was poor. Sometimes you can get a discount if you buy in bulk. The key is asking the manager politely. You won't get a discount if you don't ask.
Negotiate
Do your homework and learn how you can get some leverage in a purchase negotiation. If another store offers a lower price on a similar item, show the ad to the manager. Sellers of cars, electronics and cell phones are often willing to make you a better deal at the end of the month in order to reach their sales quotas. If a store is in financial trouble, play hardball and offer a ridiculously low price. You can always walk away if rejected.
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