With household budgets under pressure, haggling is more valuable than ever, yet too many are simply too embarrassed to try, according to consumer rights campaigner Helen Dewdney, better known as The Complaining Cow. She said there’s no need to be shy. “What have you got to lose? They can only say no.”
Why haggling works
She said a displayed price isn’t necessarily the final word, particularly when you’re buying something expensive. The business wants to make sales too, and may be prepared to accept a slightly smaller profit margin.
It helps to do your homework first. Check competitors’ prices and decide the maximum you’re prepared to pay.
What to negotiate
Don’t just haggle over the headline price. Delivery, installation, administration fees and accessories can all be up for negotiation, Dewdney said. “Could the business throw in something? Batteries? Sofa cushions? Delivery charges, installation fees and accessories can all be negotiable.”
Timing helps. Try visiting a shop when it’s quiet, rather than when staff are rushed off their feet. If buying a car, September is a good time to negotiate as dealers are keen to shift outgoing registrations.
How to negotiate effectively
Tell a business you can pay today if you’re a cash buyer, and make sure you’re talking to somebody with the authority to offer a discount. Be calm, polite and assertive. Crucially, don’t be afraid of silence. Once you’ve asked for a better price, stop talking. A salesperson may feel uncomfortable with the silence and offer something more, Dewdney said.
Online shoppers should haggle too. You can even keep a screenshot of a rival offer and take it into a store. The same applies to insurance, broadband and mobile contracts. Check a comparison site to see what your supplier charges new customers and ask whether loyal customers can get the same deal. If not, get ready to switch.
Be ready to walk away
The golden rule is this: be prepared to walk away. Haggling only works if you’re genuinely willing to say no. Dewdney said both sides should be happy with the outcome. “A haggled price is a win-win. The business gets a sale and you get a better deal.”
Being a bit less British could leave you considerably better off. One day, I might even try it myself.
