Does asking for a discount really work?

The British are not exactly renowned for being great hagglers. The very idea of asking for a discount in a crowded shop would cause many Brits to blush! Attitudes are slowly starting to change however as customers start to realise their buying power in an increasingly competitive marketplace.

Too embarrassed?

Some retail situations have traditionally been more amenable to bargaining than others. Examples of transactions where haggling is considered standard practice include auctions, car boot sales and private sales between individuals. Buying a house is just one situation where the buyer and seller are expected to negotiate the final purchase price. Until very recently though, few people would have dreamed of haggling in a traditional shop. Whilst a few canny consumers have been brave enough to haggle when buying large ticket items like sofas or TVs, most of us are just too shy to ask for a reduction in price.

Ask for that discount!

According to consumer experts, people power is on the rise and asking for discounts is becoming more socially acceptable. If you'd like to give haggling a try, there are a number of examples where you stand a better chance of securing a deal. Damaged or shop spoiled goods are often sold at a discount, as are end-of-line items. If you do negotiate a better price on a deal like this however, make sure you understand how your rights will be affected if you want to return or exchange the item at a later date.

Where to start

Warehouses and bulk purchase stores are a good place to discuss discounts as staff are often more used to negotiating with trade buyers. Some supermarkets offer deals on bulk buys such as multiple cases of wine - ask to find out what is available. If you are buying a car, you should expect to haggle and get a discount. Be prepared to walk away if you don't! The customer is king in the current economic climate and many retailers are desperate to shift goods. Use this to your advantage to get the best deals.

Large ticket electrical items are also a good bet for beginners to bargaining. Both small independent retailers and large chains can usually offer flexibility on price. Ask for a discount if you complete the purchase there and then, or ask if extras such as an extended warranty or accessories can be thrown-in for free. It is also often possible to knock the price down further on ex-display and sale models as retailers are keen to shift stock and make way for new products.

Start easy

If even the thought of asking for a discount is enough to make you blush, ease yourself in gently. Start with online retailers such as eBay sellers - you can ask the question in the knowledge that they will have been asked many times before, plus they won't be able to see if your cheeks turn red! Once you have succeeded in negotiating a bargain you will never look back, so be brave and give it a go.