dogwelder
When those large purchases crop up, here are a few tips to help you stretch your dollars:
1. Consider a part time job. When we purchased our first home I got a part time job at Pottery Barn. I didn’t work there for the $8/hr but worked there for the discount! I saved every paycheck and used what I made to virtually furnish our 2200 sq ft house. We bought a floor model sectional sofa for 80% off retail, a 6ft mirror for $60- marked down from $400 and so much more! Many major retailers will hire seasonal or part time help and offer massive discounts. Don’t forget the discount can often apply to sister stores as well- in my case I also got 40% off at PB Kids, Williams Sonoma and West Elm.
2. Scratch and Dent stores. Scratch and Dent stores are outlets for retailers and manufacturers to sell slightly damaged, discontinued or returned goods at major discounts. If you are in the market for appliances in particular, this is a great resource as stores such as Sears often have
scratch and dent outlets. We bought a mattress for 75% off because there was a small tear in the fabric from a box cutter. It was brand new and in otherwise excellent condition.
scratch and dent outlets. We bought a mattress for 75% off because there was a small tear in the fabric from a box cutter. It was brand new and in otherwise excellent condition.
3. Take advantage of registries. Many stores will offer registry programs- sign up is typically very simple. Once you close the registry you will typically receive a discount on one entire transaction. Registries aren’t just for weddings and baby showers! You can also register for housewarming, birthdays, graduations etc..
4. Ask for a discount. I am amazed at how frequently we get discounts at major retailers simply for asking. It is not something you normally think of doing- but if you are making a large purchase they may be willing to work with you on the price. This is especially effective if you can pay cash.
Do you have any secrets for saving on major purchases? I’d love to hear about them!
Great advice! The only thing I would add is that using cash is ineffective at chain stores since it doesn't matter what form of payment you use. Cash discounts work at independent stores where they are saving on the fee paid to the credit card company or not reporting the sale.
How do I find one of these scratch and dent stores? We will be in the market for a new range and fridge next month.
Knit, You can ask at your local retailers (like Sears etc..) or check online- we found them by entering scratch and dent on Yahoo Yellow Pages.