SAVVY SHOPPING TIPS

Retail Doctor Group’s BRIAN WALKER offers advice for nabbing a great deal

1 RESEARCH FIRST

Hone in on what you want to buy before trekking to a store, advises Brian. “Know what product you want, look online for the best price and make sure the shops have plenty of that product in store. Make sure there’s a good warranty, too.”

2 DON’T DAWDLE

“Have a list of what you want and make sure you’re organised. Don’t just make purchases while randomly strolling – that’s not only exhausting, but you can spend more money. Be focused.”

3 SUSS THE BEST SALES

If you’re game enough, last minute gift-hunting can be good for your wallet, Brian says. “Half-price sales start around December 22, 23 and 24, so you could hold back until then.”

4 CHECK THE FINE PRINT

Look into the warranties and guarantees before making that purchase – just in case something goes wrong, advises Brian. “Check out the product’s details and the background. You want to make sure things can be returned, so knowing the store’s returns policy is also really important.”

5 IT’S OK TO NEGOTIATE

“You may not get a discount but you might get some added value, [an add-on] product perhaps. The more you buy from a retailer the better your bargaining power, so it really depends on the circumstances – but nothing ventured, nothing gained.”