We all like to find ways to save money when we shop. Clipping coupons from the newspaper, comparing prices at different stores, and heading to the mall during special sales events are all effective ways of getting what we want without overspending. At least, we would like to think so. The truth is that not everything "on sale" is as cheap as it appears. Yes, it's usually cheaper, but advertisers and retailers know that most people respond to things that are "on sale" when they're shopping, and they don't always think things through when they buy them.
If you're on a budget and like to hunt down bargains when you're out shopping, you will want to keep your eyes open for sales that may sound too good to be true. Here are a few things that should help you in that regard.
1. Pay Attention to Prices
This may sound like a no-brainer, but you should always pay attention to prices when you go out shopping. When we say that you should pay attention to prices, we don't mean that you should pick out the most inexpensive item on the shelf. When you are out shopping, try to look at the last two digits of prices. Most full prices end in .99, while sales prices are more likely to end in .49 or .97. If you see something that costs $14.99, chances are that it's not on sale. That may be cheap, but don't pick it up thinking that you bought it at a reduced price. This is actually fairly common in bulk-based stores such as Costco. The prices at Costco may seem low at any given time, but remember that they often aren't sales prices. Consider holding off on making your purchase until you can find it for a real sales price.
2. Shop Around
If you come across something you want at what appears to be a great price, make sure that it really is a great price by comparing it to prices at other stores. You might be surprised to find that it could be cheaper if you bought it elsewhere, even if it is "on sale" at your favorite department store. This includes going to thrift stores or shopping online. There isn't always a better deal somewhere else, but it never hurts to take a look.
3. Download Shopping Apps
You shouldn't be surprised that there are smartphone apps dedicated to finding the best deals. Slickdeals allows users to post alerts about great deals that they find in their neighborhoods, while the browser add-on PriceBlink can tell you about lower prices on items when you're shopping online. Other apps, such as RedLaser and PriceGrabber, allow you to scan items in stores and find out if they are being offered at lower prices elsewhere.
4. Don't Buy Something that Never Goes to its Full Price
One great tip to consider when hunting down the best deals is to never buy something that is always on sale. Some stores will never allow some of their merchandise to go to their full price. This practice basically relies on consumers who will buy things on impulse when they see a big "SALE!" sticker on something. It's next to impossible to determine the value of these items simply because nobody sees how much they really cost and never figure out how much they're really worth.
Perhaps the most important thing to remember when you're trying to be a smart shopper is to always think your purchases through. Always consider the full price of an item if you know what it is, and never make impulse buys. It is possible to save money when you go out shopping, but only if you keep a clear head and don't let yourself get carried away.
This article was provided by Kelly Elder, deal-hunting live-in nanny. If you're a business looking to improve the customer experience by finding them the best deals, Kelly recommends you click here for more information.
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