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7 ways to haggle for the best bargain

Make it business, not personal
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Make it business, not personal

"Be careful to keep negotiating businesslike, even friendly," Reed says. "Some people think of haggling as getting the upper hand, but that won't get you anywhere."

Maintain a demeanor that tells sellers you're interested in a mutual resolution that's beneficial to both of you."

Stark recommends keeping your approach light, simple and humorous. The honey-versus-vinegar approach will win you friendly service along with a discount. "When I travel, I always approach the front desk at a hotel and ask, 'Do you have a better room price for someone who is overweight and not from New York?'" Stark says.

Another tactic Stark swears by is "the sound of silence." If you reach an impasse on price reductions, don't say anything, just listen. "The other person will often make a concession just to end the uncomfortable silence," Stark says.


 

 

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