Reviving the art of haggling
By Michelle Warren • Bankrate.com

My dad has a saying: If you don't ask, you don't get. And he practises what he preaches. Whether it's at a flea market, buying windows or going on holiday, he never hesitates to ask for a deal or negotiate a perk or two. He always does it in a jocular way whereby he ends up not only getting what he wants, but also making pals with the point person.

It's a skill my brother also possesses. He's downright shameless, recently securing a $50 discount on a television at Best Buy, not because it was damaged, but just because he refused to pay full price. When I commented on the audacity of haggling with a major retailer, he just shook his head: "Everything is negotiable."

Unfortunately, the art of haggling isn't something I inherited. I'd rather pay double than ask for a discount or try to barter with a merchant. There's something about talking money that makes me squirm: the whole thing seems distasteful and somewhat sullied.

I'm not alone. Canadians are often thought of as too polite or fair-minded for the task. Beyond flea markets, car dealerships and real estate, few people would ever consider haggling over sticker price. Apparently we're missing out.

National retailers, big box stores, private businesses and even high-end merchants are often open to negotiating, especially these days when consumers are less apt to part with their hard-earned cash in an increasingly shaky economic environment. It's a buyer's market; you just have to know when and how to unleash your inner haggler.

Be prepared to pay a fair price. If you go in asking for an unreasonable discount, salespeople won't take you seriously and are well within their rights to say no. They want your business, but they also need to make money.

Do your homework. If you explain that a competitor is selling a similar item for less, the merchant will respect this tactic and should be willing to beat -- not just match -- the other guy's price.

Pay in cash. Many retailers pay a processing fee on credit card purchases, therefore most are willing to drop the price if you're paying cash.

Search for flaws. If you're buying something new, it should be in perfect condition. If the item you're buying has even a tiny flaw, always ask for a discount (even if it's already on sale).