- Make sure you wait at least 48 hours before purchasing it. This will give you time to think things through and make sure if you really need this item. Patience is a virtue.
- Compare prices. Most times there is a better deal if you take time out to wait, compare prices on the internet, or call stores in the area to ask how much their product costs. SAVINGS is always a good thing when you are not neglecting quality.
- Request a coupon from the manufacture. Ask and you shall receive. Most times there are coupons available for newly promoted items.
- If you are purchasing an item online, make sure to visit coupon sites to see if there is a coupon code available. Sometimes the coupon code will offer free shipping and handling or a percentage discount on the sales price of the product. Just check to make sure you aren’t missing out on anything.
- Ask about the warranty of the product. Sometimes manufactures offer a warranty, be sure that it is included in the price. If not, you always have the option to pay for warranty up front if it is one of those big ticket items (i.e., flat screen television, stereo, video system). I would recommend purchasing the additional warranty if it not included in the base price. You’ll wish you did when something guys wrong with the newly purchased item.
- Wait until the price goes down before deciding to purchase. Sometimes if you wait three to six months later the promotional price will be cut by 10 to 20 percent. Waiting for more than 48 hours is another option for creating SAVINGS.
- Check the consumer report book on this item. Make sure that you are sticking with a brand name/manufacture that has a track record for proven quality. This will pay off 5 years down the line when the item is still functioning as when you first pulled it out of the box.
- Ask friends and family for suggestions on how well they like the manufacture or item. If they have the item already in possession then this gives you the option to test it out before you buy it for yourself. It is one of the best ways to get a sneak preview of how the item works.
- Check the local paper for similar products. The classified section of the newspaper offers quality products for little to no money. Of course, it will be a used item but this is better than paying full price. Check yard sales and garage sales for a similar item. Sometimes you can find a pretty good bargain for a low price. You just have to know which neighborhoods to visit to get the good products for cheap.
- Keep in mind that the product will most likely depreciate in value once you buy it. Make sure that your purchase in a good investment in your future. Ask yourself these three questions: 1) Is this product just a fad? 2) Can I wait and purchase the item later when it is cheaper? 3) Do I really need this or is it just a want item?
I hope the 10 tips will help you to understand how to be a smart consumer.





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