Thrifty Thinking: Haggling

- Know what competitors are charging for the same product, and use that. Many stores now offer price match guarantees.
- Look for floor models, or be willing to take an item with a flaw at a lower price (such as a small tear you can mend, or a scuff mark on an appliance).
- When buying big-ticket items, offer less than you're willing to pay to provide some room, ask for extras if you can't get the price you want, and be willing to walk away if the price isn't what you're willing to pay.
- Hire labor-related services during off-peak times and ask for a discount, or compare bids and ask if your top choice can match another's bid.