How To Haggle Like A Seasoned Bargain Shopper

Updated: February 17, 2019

Bargain stores abound in the Philippines specially in Metro Manila. They can be found in malls and shopping centers everywhere. If you’re fond of going to the tiangge or bazaar, but feel that you’re not really getting the best deals, then here are some effective tips on how to haggle and save money on your next shopping spree.

But before we go into that, let me tell you what haggling means to me and why you should not be ashamed or embarrassed to do it. The word haggle tends to have a negative meaning in dictionaries, hence the bad connotation which most people associate with the act.

Personally, I believe that Wikipedia defines it best with the clear statement that haggling is politely arguing. There is nothing wrong with haggling and you shouldn’t be afraid to do it. These stores actually have a price margin for hagglers so if you politely ask, then you’re more likely to get that discount.

You can pretend that it’s a professional business transaction and you are negotiating prices from your supplier. Anyway, enough of the introduction and let’s get into the tips, so are you ready to ‘make tawad’?

Shopping Preliminaries

• Set a budget before going and bring only enough cash. This way, you are more likely to haggle because you have limited funds.
• Have a short list of the things you plan to buy and know the prevalent market prices of the items.
• Decide how much you are willing to spend for each item and remember to stick to them.
• Dress for bargaining success. Put on a simple outfit and avoid wearing designer clothes, expensive accessories and extravagant jewelries.

The Haggling Process

First, when you see an item you like, stay calm and politely ask for the price. Showing enthusiasm is not advised. Ask next if that’s their best price, do not make a counter-offer yet. Then a after that, maintain a poker face and keep silent as if you’re contemplating. The salesperson sometimes breaks the silence with a better offer.

If you know a store that offers the item at a lower price, this is the time to mention it. Plainly state the fact and do not suggest that they match or beat the price.

Now, assess if you really want the item, if so then decide at what price you are willing to buy it. This is the point of no return, once you give your counter-offers then it is only ethical that you purchase the item if the seller meets your price.

Remember that before giving any counter-offers, always be sure to set it within your budget for the item. And there’s no harm in making your first counter-offer ridiculously low but be sure to be good natured about it so as not to irritate the seller. Smile and be amiable.

Everytime the salesperson gives a lower price, haggle with a number that’s a little higher than your last counter-offer. You can go somewhere in between the seller’s last price and your previous counter-offer but I suggest going lower than the mid-price.

But always smile and do not harass the seller but continue haggling until he or she is unwilling to budge. If the last offer is within your budget, then acknowledge the acceptance of the offer.

Moreover, if you’re planning to buy several items from the store, set the last one aside and move on to haggling to the next thing you want to purchase. Then once you have collected everything you intend to purchase, ask the seller for a discount on the total price.

Lastly, before paying for your items, ask the salesperson for something extra or any item that he or she can give for free. You’ll be surprised at the items you can get by simply asking.

Mental Notes

• It helps if you can talk to the store manager or owner and do the bargaining with them.
• Being a regular customer is good. Establish rapport with your favorite bargain stores and you will always get their best deals.
• Do not haggle if you’re not really sure that you want to buy the item. Simply asking for their best price is enough if you’re just looking around.
• If don’t get the price you want, do not be afraid to walk away. Tell them that you’ll try looking for a better deal somewhere or just come back when the item goes up on sale.
• Lastly, have fun. Shopping is an emotionally rewarding experience.

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