Market Economy

Thursday, July 29th, 2010 at 5:44 pm

And I’m talking about the Flea market… Because if you want to go, and are a novice on the subject, it’s good to know how to use your dollars wisely.

♦ First tip: do not waste time looking for things of value on the dusty shelves and countertops. I stay far away, because I’m totally allergic to dust… (and overspending).

Experienced sellers expose things that have some value, as visible as possible to the public. They’re right, aren’t they? I would do the same.

♦ Do not expect perfection in this kind of place. These types of markets sell second hand or even third hand things. So don’t point out defects in objects, trying to get a discount, it makes it sound like you’re saying that the seller is a dishonest person.

♦ Learn to haggle – Many people get tongue tied when it comes to negotiating. Keep it simple…

Do it this way, it’s very simple, say: “This is what I’m prepared to pay. You can part with it for X dollars? And then give your starting price, which shouldn’t be ridiculously low.

Never say “I don’t want to pay that much” or “I really I don’t need it,” as though it would compel the seller to lower the price…

Sellers are much more willing to lower the price, to someone they feel, that really are interested in their wares. So act as if you really want it rather than dismissing it as overpriced junk.

♦ Last tip – Get on the vendor’s good side, especially if you visit these places frequently.

If you have a kind of ’friendship’ with him, you can get the best discounts… after all, and you’re a customer who always comes back…

They will even separate items that they think you’ll like.

If you only go once in a while to these places, talk to him about similar tastes and stories of the item you’re interested in before you start negotiating.

And don’t forget: if the subject here is $$. A bargain is not a bargain, unless you need it.

bargainbasket