How to Haggle for a Better Price When Buying
Haggling is a word and action that has many negative connotations attached to it. Especially if you are in US (it is considered part of the life in most of the world). We just don't partake in such things. But why? Not only can it save you serious money, it can also be fun!
The beauty of classified sites like craigslist, kijiji, backpage, etc. is that advertising for an item is free, many people place ads on these websites to shift unwanted items quickly. This is where haggling will be your best friend. As was stated earlier, haggling is associated with arguing and aggression. This really doesn't have to be the case.
Here are some top tips when trying to bag a bargain when you find an item from a classified site:
Make sure you know the market. You shouldn't consider settling on any price unless you know what the standard price is. This is applicable for everything, from chairs to cars. Knowing the market will enable you to know what a fair price is whatever it is that you want to buy. It can also be used as a tool to haggle. A key phrase to use when trying to reduce the seller's price would be, "Hmmm, I saw one listed that was almost identical, only it was twenty dollars cheaper!" should help in unsettling the seller and make them consider lowering their price.
Try to remain calm, even if the item is the exact one you want, just slightly out of your price range. Losing your cool will make it impossible for you to haggle; the seller will be able to spot your eagerness and could try to take advantage of this.
The sound of silence really will be beautiful...to you. Remaining quiet when the seller is showing you the item will automatically register your displeasure. This is quite hard to do as we automatically try to fill any prolonged silences, and this is the desired effect. The seller will try to break the silence, and this may help them to feel the need to reduce the price.
Ensure you read the description of the item thoroughly. If it states "perfect condition" then it is up to you as the buyer to make sure that it is, and if it isn't well that surely equates to a reduction in the price. Most sellers are willing to reduce their price if given good reasons.
Finally, don't be afraid to walk away, you are the consumer and under no pressure to buy, despite what the seller may be wanting you to feel. Ensure that you are the one in control and remember, have fun. You will be amazed at the bargains you can get on these sites through haggling!