Archive for 'Consumer-Reports'



Consumer Reports Tells You How to Haggle Your Way to Savings

According to the November issue of Consumer Reports which is on sale as of October 2, individuals who negotiate over prices often achieve a savings in almost all areas of consumption. The study revealed that more than 90% of shoppers who bargain on price for goods and services actually receive a better price, from furniture, electronics to medical bills. Consumer Reports Senior Editor Tod Marks said
People think that there is little wiggle room when it comes to things like medical and cable television bills, but if you’re willing to risk rejection, the rewards can pay off handsomely.
Some tips on how to haggle were included in the press release:

Smile and don’t be shy. A merchandiser won’t give you a bargain unless it is a benefit to them.
Gauge the seller’s need. I.e., if an item has a limited shelf life it might be more attractive to sell now at a lower price.
Deal with the person who can make the decision. I.e., a sales manager might be the one to talk with.
Negotiate when you’ve got power such as at the end of your cell phone plan.
Shop at the right time when the new products are rolling in …

Consumer Reports Recommends Amazon for New Book Purchases

Consumer Reports
Consumer Reports bought 23 titles: new, old, bestselling, classics, and midlist titles. The list price was $565. CR bought the books from Amazon at 32% discount. The next best retailer was BN.com at a 19% discount.

Via Consumer Reports magazine, January 2007, p. 6.