Friday, May 15, 2009

Tit for Tat: Buy? Or No?

By Ian Kleine

There are two types of people that should never be left alone in a bustling shopping district or even just in the local fair. The impulsive buyer. The shopaholic.

As in, there should be no exception, whether it be that popcorn the guy is selling, that old dress granny put up in display for auction, a rare butterfly clip you plan to give to your girl friend, or a rare book you're sure Dad would really love to find in his collection right now.

There is the temptation of buying something, especially if you feel your wallet is fat and full. The human need to spend money on something stimulates a sense of power. The power to get what you want. But you must resist and be strong.

Take note, not everything in there has the right value for it. Most goods in a fair or a festival would have their original value rocketing up to at least their original price plus half of it. Now, unless it explicitly gives out in full detail that the goods they are selling ARE discounted; you would be paying more than half of the original amount if you had chosen to buy it at a regular store.

Think about the practicality too. Do you want it? Do you NEED it? How can this help me in my home or in my life? What are the pros? What are the cons? Do these things make a good investment in the future? Ask yourself these things before actualizing the thought of buying it.

Avoid being swayed by the owner. This is the fair. You can CERTAINLY haggle if you want to. That's the big difference with supermarkets. You can ask for some sort of discount. And they would give in, after all, they do not have the luxury of being able to sell forever. It's a limited time only.

Be a smart shopper too. At least take one person you trust to ask for an opinion should you face the decision to purchase something in the fair.

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