Furniture Haggling

[jgp12000]

We are in the market for a sectional sofa, it's been 20 years since We bought a sofa. In my younger dumber days I had no idea furniture haggling was possible? I like to use 0% deals if possible but if the cash price is the lowest that's my bottom line.

So what is the rule of thumb now for haggling, google tells me 10-25% off sticker price ? Any inputs are surely welcome,I do not wanna go for 15% off if 40% is possible, by the way I hate the whole process, I know guys that live for the art of the deal, not me. I rather be fishing  

[Gobi King]

Costco
No haggling

[foakes]

Nearly everything in life is negotiable to some extent —-

It requires needing to know WHO to talk to, what approach, and  making sure that they are the decision maker who can authorize a discount on the spot.

It is not rocket science —- but it does require some people & business skills that are not found in books.

It also requires a little basic research to determine the knowledge as to what might or might not be doable.

Your approach, honesty, patience, and pleasant no-nonsense manner are important.

The key is not being hesitant to ask.  Very few things are gained in life —- without asking.  This is true for nearly anything from a piece of furniture to a piece of biscuit.

My wife and I wanted a Lazy-Boy brand double recliner some years ago.  They were in the price range of $1200+ at that time.  Went to the store when they had a sale going for 30% off.  Wife was willing to pay that.  Since we did not need one that minute, I let Sue know that I was going to try and "negotiate" a lower price.  She got embarrassed and said she wanted no part of the interaction.  So I asked her to slowly walk towards the front door.  I then asked for the floor manager, introduced myself, showed him my wife heading out —- he said he would sell it for $500.  I offered $350, showed him the green, and loaded up the recliner.  Wife is still embarrassed on that one.  But I'm not...

There are a few things that are hard or impossible to negotiate —- but generally everything from dental work to computer products, vehicles, plumbing, construction, insurance, etc. —- is flexible.

It takes some shopping, comparing, knowledge, politeness, and not being afraid to ASK.

Your sincerity, proven and immediate ability to pay in full, and your manner, are key here.

Best, Fred

[JasonGotaProblem]

All of this is contingent on everything Fred said. And also an understanding of how reasonable the asking price is and how enthusiastic they are about selling TODAY.

I'm armenian. Negotiation is an art form.

Here's a freebie that has worked wonders for me:

"Would you consider $___" (with a smile)

Is always better received than

"Would you take $___"

Because I haven't made a low-ball offer I've merely made conversation about how you'd react to one. And if you'd react favorably, well here it comes.

Also sometimes there's no flexibility in the asking price, but you can get add ons or services, free delivery, late checkout, etc.

And with all this, what's most important is NOT INSULTING THE SELLER. I'd wager I've had better success by convincing them I'm a nice person that deserves a deal (and has cash on hand now), than I'd ever get by trying to convince them this is the best offer they're likely to get on their junk.

[Gfish]

Fred and Jason are right! It can actually be fun. I'd only add: never act like you really want it.

I hated the idea of haggling. Then I went down to the furniture store with my future wife when we were "just friends". We both loved the twin-mattress solid wood head-boards and she started haggling for one. I was inspired to jump in and begin on another. Towards the end of the deal we both looked at each other and I winked, she winked back and I said: "let's check-out another store" Bingo! We both got the lower price. A definite connection and advancement in the relationship happened there. And yes,  months latter after we were married, I clamped those 2-head-boards together for our King-size bed.