HOW TO SPOT A BARGAIN!

While shopping, you spot the price tag of your favourite outfit and since you are convinced that this is the best price for the item you quickly purchase it. However, after a few weeks you return to the same store only to discover that the same item has been heavily discounted.

It is an unfortunate fact of shopping that finding a true bargain, especially in the current financial environment takes some skill. However, it is possible to find bargains if you are determined to try alternative methods.

Those who shop on the spur of the moment often don’t benefit from bargains. The best way to find a bargain is to prepare even before you enter the store.

Here are some things you need to do/ask before you go shopping :

• Is it a clearance sale or just a regular sale? Sometimes stores need to clear old stock and are willing to reduce prices on old stock.
• How much does the item normally cost before the sale? Often stores mark up the cost of the item and then reduce it to make it seem as if you are getting a bargain.
• Time your shopping to coincide with ‘slow’ seasons before major holidays.
• Shop around. Sometimes the item you are looking for might be sold at various locations so compare prices.
• Network with your friends. Often word of mouth can lead to bargains so use your connections on Facebook or Twitter to find new places to shop.
• Check the store’s manager to find out what items are on special. Some managers will even tell you when their next sale will be held.

So how do you find bargains? Let me hear from you!

Teri Ann Renee Paisley
Gleaner Online Writer

Tags: consumer, save, shopping