Haggling 101

For some haggling down a price is gut wrenching concept and it seriously doesn’t have to be. As a professional fundraiser the statement “if you don’t ask you don’t receive" is a term I use everyday in my work but I also always apply it to my home life. Remember whether dealing with a store manager or a private seller of a used item as much as you want to buy at the best price the seller wants to sell so compromise is often attainable with the right approach to haggling.

THINK BEFORE YOU SPEAK
Before starting set in your mind a goal price you are working toward.

MORE BEES WITH HONEY

Haggling with a store or a private seller is not an aggressive or competitive act and at the end of the day almost all people respond positively to friendly and polite behaviour. So smile and be kind.

WHAT'S THAT?

Point out any imperfections in the item. Albeit subtle it will help with your bargaining.

EDUCATE YOURSELF

If you are aware of other retailers or private buyers selling that same item or a very close equivalent at a better price speak up about it! Some stores have a price match guarantee so educate yourself.

CALM & COLLECTIVE

Never show excess excitement or eagerness to buy when interacting with the seller. Being calm and collective puts more power in your hands. Act like you are pondering whether you want to buy that item or not – like you just may walk.

TIME IT RIGHT

Don’t slam the seller right away with your request for a lower price. Pick your moment wisely.

WANNA WALK?

If you feel a lower price is the fairer price be prepared to walk should the seller not bend.

The bottom line is that you have everything to gain and nothing to lose by asking for a better price. Don’t be shy – shyness gets you nowhere. So smile and ask “is that the lowest you will go?” because you just may be surprised how often it will work to your benefit.

Happy Haggling!