Smart Shopping

The best way to save money is not to spend it, especially on items you do not need. But, when it comes to large-ticket items or other essentials, the following tips come in very handy:

• When buying an expensive item or service, always bargain on price. It never hurts to ask, and if you are buying a television set or appliance, you could easily save yourself 10 to 20%.

• If you are using cash, ask for a discount. Whenever credit cards are used, the retailer pays a small percentage to the bank. So, if you pay cash, you are saving them money.

• Do not buy extended warranties. They are a major profit item for the vendor, and many of them are never used.

• Keep receipts and send in rebate coupons. Do not hesitate to return anything that disappoints you in even the slightest way. And, remember to mail that rebate coupon as soon as possible.

• Buy your furniture and appliances prescratched. You can bargain down the price even more.

• Don't shop hungry. If you are shopping for food, it will make you buy more. If you are shopping for anything else, it will make you hurry. And, avoid shopping when you are depressed. You will buy items you do not need and you may feel worse.

• Always use a list--do not buy anything that isn't on it.

• Don't wait until the last minute. Less time will give you less flexibility and you will lose any bargaining power.