10 things to remember when something is on sale

It can be easy to get carried away when you see those discount tags in stores or get an email telling you it’s sale time at a favourite shop. Here are 10 things to have in the back of your mind so you don’t end up with buyer’s remorse.

1. Check it really is a bargain.
Do your research to make sure the sale price really is better than the normal price – and check it’s not cheaper somewhere else. We like to check the price options on priceme.co.nz or pricespy.co.nz. This makes it easy to see if the ‘sale’ price is one the product drops to on most weekends or is a real bargain.

2. Know the 3 Rs and forget the extended warranty.  An extended warranty generally isn’t worth it – you’ll be paying for cover you already have under the Consumer Guarantees Act. The shop must repair or replace faulty goods or provide a refund. It doesn’t matter if the item was on sale – the law still applies. must repair or replace faulty goods or provide a refund. It doesn’t matter if the item was on sale – the law still applies.

3. Take a moment to make sure you really want it.  If you change your mind about a purchase, the retailer doesn’t have to take it back. Check out our product tests to make sure you’re getting the best you can for what you want to spend.

4. Don’t forget your chargeback rights.  If you’re shopping online, use a credit or debit card so you can do a chargeback if the goods don’t show up. Read our advice on how to do a chargeback.

5. Know who’s responsible for deliveries.  Under the Consumer Guarantees Act, the retailer is responsible for ensuring items arrive on time and in good condition. So, if an item arrives damaged, you don’t have to muck about with the courier company – the retailer must sort it out.

6. Find out where to shop for good service.  Our retailer satisfaction survey can show you which retailers are doing the best job of keeping customers happy.

7. It never hurts to ask.  Leave your shyness at the door when hunting for a bargain. See if the salesperson will offer anything extra to sweeten the deal. If you can see a cheaper price elsewhere, ask if they’ll match it.

8. Think carefully before signing up for a buy now, pay later deal.  The appeal is understandable. However, if you start missing payments, you’ll pay default fees, and that could make your bargain no longer a bargain.

9. Ask about gift policies.
Retailers have no obligation to take back a present if the recipient doesn’t like it or you change your mind before giving it to them. However, some stores will do an exchange just because they want to foster good customer relations. Ask what a store’s exchange policy is before you buy a gift you’re not sure of.

10. Ignore the pressure tactics.  “Selling fast!” “10 others looking at this item.” “Don’t miss out!” These kinds of claims are designed to tempt you to make a purchase you wouldn’t otherwise make. Remember, you’ll save more money if you just walk away or put down your device for awhile!