Did you know that 11:00 AM is the ideal time to shop? It’s when you are most alert and make the best decisions, says Paco Underhill, CEO of Envirosell, a consumer insight firm.
For more insider shopping tips, keep reading…
Easy Returns
Emily Co of Savvy Sugar, an online finance tool, says there are six tips to keep in mind when making a return:
1. Whenever possible, buy in-store rather than online. The policies are often less strict than shopping online, and you’ll never have to pay return shopping.
2. Ask about return policies. Retailers change their rules, so check with salespeople and make a note on your receipt.
3. Be nice. Salespeople are used to confrontational customers. Instead, treat them like you would a friend in order to lighten the mood.
4. As shallow as it may sound, look your best. People are generally more receptive if you’re well put together.
5. Build a rapport. Get to know the manager of a store you frequently shop, they will be your best ally should you have a tricky return.
6. Learn the fine art of compromise. If a shop won’t refund your money, ask for a store credit; if the item is damaged, a partial credit.
When Is the Best Time to Buy…
According to LearnVest, an online budgeting tool, there are better times of the year than others when you should make certain purchases in order to save the most money.
January – Winter coats and boots: The longer you wait, the deeper the discount.
February – Cameras: New models come out now, so you can scoop up last year’s at a discount.
March – Perfume: Anytime after Valentine’s Day you are sure to get a good deal.
April – Sneakers: As the weather starts to warm, there is more incentive to hit the gym and be outdoors.
May – Sweaters and cashmere: Prices can be reduced by as much as 40%.
June – Men’s suits: Pre- and post-Father’s Day sales mean steep discounts on clothes for him.
July – Makeup: Head to Norstrom’s annual sale for rare discounts on department store brands.
August – Sandals: Retailers slash prices to clean out their stock. It’s a great time to plan for next summer!
September – Airfare: Eight weeks before Thanksgiving, airfares take their final descent.
October- Jeans: Anything that didn’t sell during back-to-school season is now cheaper.
November- Swimsuits: Retailers are in a hurry to make room for holiday merchandise, so bathing suits can be found for nearly 90% off.
December – Bridalwear: Fall and Winter are slow seasons for weddings.
Shoes
Were you aware that there is an ideal time of day to buy shoes? Late afternoon. Never go shopping for shoes early in the morning.
Most people’s feet swell through the course of the day, and this is why buying shoes in the morning is not a good idea. By late afternoon your feet will have settled, so it is the best time to buy them.
If you are in the majority, like me, there will be a slight difference in the size of your feet. This only becomes a problem in certain styles. This is why you must try both shoes on before parting with your hard earned cash. You don’t want to be limping around because your toes are crushed in one shoe, especially if you’re out shopping!
Photo credit: acute_tomato
