Okay.
Let's face it. It is not easy to find a nice bargain. And often times, when we find it, there is one thing that doesn't agree - our pockets. So what now? You just can't snatch it away from the boutique can you?
This is where haggling comes in.
I am sure most of us had our moments of triumph because we got it at the price we want. But the real question is, did we really get it at the price we want? Or was it just a fair deal?
First and foremost, we have to choose the place where we will haggle. Divi, 168 weren't popular because of the variety nor the low price it offers. These malls are popular because aside from getting it at a cheaper price, you can still haggle.
Of course, we have our own lists of Mini-divis and mini-168s right? Whether it's a bazaar you often go to at PBCOM tower in Makati or some bazaar near your place, you need to know where you need to say the magic words, "last price", "tawad".
Second, do not settle for the first shop you set foot into. Bazaars are created in such a way that each booth is positioned side-by-side or across each other. Because, for bazaar organizers, variety is everything. Take advantage of how the stalls are positioned. It maybe narrow and pretty congested perhaps, but it lets you compare a menu over the other.
Compare prices. Because doing research will help you bargain later.
Third, know the price and remember it.
It helps when you know the worth of what you are buying. Don't fall into the loophole of getting the item just because the tindera said it's cheap already. Always do your research. New items are often expensive. So know the price difference, P50 is still P50 right?
Fourth, during haggling time, it helps to befriend the tinderas. No matter how masungit the tindera looks, there is still a soft spot in their heart. So if you are determined to really get that top you are aiming for, make the tindera your bestfriend.
Fifth, when you haggle, play fair. They know if you are playing low-ball and this is a bit repelling to them. Use your research, if the other store offers the same item at a lower price but the store you are in has a better stock or color, try to challenge her a bit. Allow her to think that you really like the top but because of the price, it makes you want to just let it go and buy from the other store. This really works, because at the end of the day, these stores has a quota to reach. But don't push her to her limits as well. Because some doesn't care and will even tell you to scoot. So play fair.
Sixth, if the tindera wasn't moved with your sweet talks, and your wallet can only afford so much, then don't push it. Give it a few more days, and prices will probably go down. Plus, it gives you ample time to save right? So don't just buy. You have to be smart too. Because there will always be better styles and colors that'll come. It is just a matter of getting the right one.
Lastly, say thank you. Often times, we are too giddy with our purchase that we have forgotten Ms. Darling Tindera who made our bargain possible. A simply thanks and a smile makes their day, and puts her in a good mood. So that is a new bargain hunter comes, she can say YES again all the way.
