Too Many Cooks in the Kitchen

When you’re shopping, the more opinions you seek, the harder it is to choose. If you’ve done your homework before you set out to shop you should have already widdled your choices down. Don’t take a squadron of friends and family with you. Limit the input to your significant other, a friend with exquisite taste or someone who is an expert in that field. Or, my choice for smaller purchases is to shop alone. Trust your own judgment.

Refusing help

Sales people are there to help you. Use them to ask about the product, find out when new shipments are coming in. Unless you’re a fashion expert, electronic wiz, you’ve studied interior design, construction or other specifics, it’s a sure bet the sales clerk will know a bit more than you. If you avoid the sales clerk, you may miss out on valuable information, extra discounts and inside information that will help you make a better informed choice and ultimately save you money.

Only shopping outlets

Yes it’s true. This bargain chick hits other stores regularly. First it keeps me well informed. Second some clothing, electronics, art, and specialty items may never show up at any discount store. Thirdly, Outlet Malls have become such a big business that many manufacturers make stuff just for the outlets. This “Special Purchase Product” was never offered anywhere else at a higher price. What you may be buying is a lower-quality line manufactured just for outlet stores. The price you’re paying may seem like a discount, but is actually full price.

Buying clothes without trying them on

Size and cut runs different from manufacturer to manufacturer. There is no uniformity in clothes sizing. Even if you’re familiar with the brand, the sizing may be different. Take the time to try on the garment. If you’re buying for others, take their measurements and keep a measuring tape with you when you shop. Measure the item, neck hole, arm holes, inseams, waist etc., to be sure of size.

Purchasing furniture without measuring

Apartments, condos and houses come in a huge range of sizing. The scale of your home should be reflected in your furniture purchases.  An oversized sectional probably won’t work in a single apartment.

Measure the area a piece will occupy, as well as the door ways into the area so you know how large a piece can be to fit through and in the space before you buy. Don’t forget to take color swatches with you. The mind doesn’t remember color clearly.

Not reading the contract or warranty

Yikes! This is plain stupid. Any transaction you make is a business transaction. From the groceries you buy to pet grooming. Know the limitations and expectations of the business you are doing business with. Know what your rights are and what the policies of the company you are dealing with are. Complaining after the fact will get you no where. Take the time to read the small print before plunking down your cash..

Suzanne O'Connor