It’s not that odd to believe that someone can have their favorite gadgets and save money too. It’s all a matter of figuring out the balance between spending money on what you want versus what you don’t need, without having to give up your favorite tech toys. The electronic industry makes it so hard for retailers to make a profit on most high tech gadgets that the retailers have to find creative ways get you to spend more so they can make a profit too. Identifying all of the tacked on portions of the price tag and learning how to avoid paying for them will save you money. This way you won’t pay more for the product than is necessary. Here are a few of the things you need to look out for when shopping for your next electronic gadget.
Service Contracts
These aren’t always disclosed clearly to the average shoppers. Retailers teach their sales teams to push overall value and benefits and to stay away from talking about price. If they are forced to talk price, they have a crafty way of breaking that out to make it appear that you are paying a smaller amount over a period of time. Paying cash is one of the ways for you to spot the add-on cost. If you are paying cash for a product, you are more likely to pick up on this right away. To save even more money, do not finance your purchase. This way, you’ll also save on the additional interest charges you would have paid if you decided to put it on a credit card.
Accessories
At the electronics counter, there are always the last minute items that go perfectly with your new toy. Think about it. The last time you bought a TV or DVD player, wasn’t it awfully convenient that the sales person had brand new cables right in reach? You probably bought them and got home to an old TV that has the same exact cords. Matter of fact, you probably bought the same premium cables the last time. This is something to avoid, as buying things you don’t need will increase the price of the electronics. Before you buy your next item, do a quick checklist for accessories that you may already have to support the product. Most electronic buffs have boxes tucked away somewhere that has an assortment of wires and connecters they have collected over time. However, it is perfectly okay to replace an item that actually needs replacement, so replace them if you absolutely need to.
Bundles Packages
You will save money off the total sale price for the bunch when you buy bundle packages, but you expose yourself to multiple additional layers for retailers to sell you the extras. If you need every piece of equipment in the bundle, buy it. But if not, don’t convince yourself that it’s a great deal and take it home anyway. Buy only what you need. This will keep your spending down and reduce credit card debt. It’s best to have a solid plan before going into the electronics store and making a purchase. You can also pay online and pick up the items at that store. This will allow you to avoid “value selling” salespersons that are commissioned or paid spiffs per add-on.