Labor Day weekend is only a few days away, and many consumers and retailers are already gearing up for what has become one of the major shopping weekends of the year. While retailers promise deals on everything from furniture and home appliances to clothing this weekend, BBB Serving Metro New York is cautioning consumers to be on the lookout for sale items that may not be actual bargains.
“If you’re heading to the stores in search of deals this weekend, be sure you know the non-sale prices of the items you want to purchase beforehand,” said Claire Rosenzweig, BBB President. “When something is on sale, you want to be sure that it is the quality you want and offered at a savings to your wallet.
To be knowledgeable about the items being offered on sale, consumers can research the regular prices of the items they want to purchase from multiple retailers before heading to the stores.
Here are five tips to help Labor Day shoppers find a deal that works for them:
Compare items before you shop. Compare prices and other features between different retailers and websites. Remember to include shipping and handling if appropriate.
Establish a spending rule. Before you head to the stores, set a strict budget and don’t exceed it whether negotiating for a big ticket item or something smaller. Some people will carry only a set amount of cash and leave the credit cards at home to help them stay within budget; it’s easier to walk away if can’t get the price you want, rather than spending more money than you can afford.
Take Your Time: Aggressive sales pitches can leave you feeling rushed, overwhelmed, anxious and confused. This is your decision and you should take as much time as you need to think clearly about it. Never make a purchase when you are feeling uncomfortable or under pressure . . . just walk away. There is always another sale.
Bring a shopping partner. Consider shopping with a friend or family member – someone who won’t hesitate to tell you to pause before making a decision.
Communicate clearly and firmly about your goals. Stay in control of the sales relationship by cutting off conversations when they veer off-topic or go on longer than you’d prefer. Stay focused on what you want and your spending limits.
For more consumers news and tips, visit www.BBBYou.org, and to find a business you can trust visit Metro NY BBB’s homepage at www.newyork.bbb.org.
About BBB Serving Metropolitan New York
For more than 100 years, Better Business Bureau has been helping consumers find businesses, brands and charities they can trust. In 2015, people turned to BBB more than 172 million times for BBB Business Reviews on more than 5.3 million businesses and Charity Reports on 11,000 charities, all available for free at bbb.org. The Council of Better Business Bureaus is the umbrella organization for local, independent BBBs across the United States, Canada and Mexico, as well as home to its national programs on dispute resolution and industry self-regulation. The BBB Serving Metropolitan New York was founded in 1922. Please visit newyork.bbb.org or bbb.
