Haggling is a good way to save money but not many people do it because they think it will be a stressful experience. Some are too shy to negotiate. When it is done in the proper manner, however, haggling can yield hundreds of dollars in savings. All you need is a little persistence and a lot of practice.

Research

It’s important to do adequate research before venturing into a negotiating session with a vendor. You should know how much an item usually goes for so that you know how much leeway you get when you ask for a bargain. Remember, vendors need to make a profit too, and it is in good taste to ask for what is only fair. Comparison shopping is also a good way to get you some haggling leverage. Compare the prices and products of competing stores so that when you enter an establishment, you know how much each store charges and you can use this information to acquire a lower price.

Don’t be ashamed to ask about future sales or promotions. If there is the chance that an item will be marked down in the near future, you can ask the sales personnel to hold the item for you until the price is cut further. Many sales people are willing to help out if you are nice enough to ask them for their assistance.

Attitude

Attitude is often key to successful haggling. Develop a rapport with the vendor or sales person. Retail employees are often more willing to assist a well-mannered and friendly customer than one who is rude and arrogant. Also, be considerate when you are negotiating for a lower price. Make sure to do your haggling out of earshot so as not to put the vendor in a difficult position.

When it comes to haggling, being too shy is a savings killer. If you don’t ask for a discount, then you won’t get it. If you appear intimidated, then the vendor might think you are not all that serious about negotiating and will insist on maintaining the original price.

Another good trick when haggling is to keep yourself from showing any outward signs of fascination for a product, no matter how much you like it. Ask casually about the item then negotiate for a better deal. If a vendor senses that you like a product he will start to think you will pay any amount just to have that item.

Ask

Asking about a store’s sale schedule isn't forbidden and sellers are more than willing to let you know about when their merchandise will be put on sale. Ask as well, if the store offers coupons. Coupons are a constant in retail establishments’ marketing plans because they know these are a good way to draw customers into their stores.

If you see that the item you like is slightly damaged – a tear here, a stain there, a small cut – ask the salesperson if they are willing to reduce the price. Often you will find that most retailers are only too willing to negotiate because they still make a sale even on damaged goods.