Friday, July 06, 2012 4:04 PM

Often the key to saving truckloads of money is simply to ask the right questions.  These savvy listeners show just how easy it is!

Asking for a discount the right way.  If you’re shy about asking for a cheaper price, instead of asking 'Can I have a discount?' rephrase the question to 'Is this the best price you can do?'  It’s not greedy or stingy, just smart!  By doing this Sarah saved $10 on a pair of top brand thongs, $10 on a bottle of perfume, and over $20 on clothing in a single month. Now ask yourself, isn't $50 or more a month worth plucking up courage for? Of course it is! And once you ask for discounts a few times and realise the savings the embarrassment will quickly fade away.

Ask for discount on display items. Don't be scared to ask for discount on display items. Doing this saved Donna $20 on a food processor.  She had been wanting one for some time but outlaying the money had always stopped her. The shelf price was $79.95 but noticing that there were no boxed ones available, Donna asked an assistant if the display one was indeed the last one, and whether they would sell it for less. She ended up getting it for $60!

Ask first, spend later.  This idea is simple but ingenious!  Paula’s family made a deal with each other not to buy anything new until they had asked around first. First Paula’s daughter needed a new stove. Her oven was propped shut with the broom until a friend called in for coffee and knew someone who had just renovated their kitchen. A phone call later and the stove was hers for the asking! The same happened when a new wood heater was needed. Next, Paula advertised for a second hand glasshouse and ended up with three for $300! Then, Paula blew up her Big Oscar food processor and found that they are no longer made to get a replacement. So again they put out their feelers and found one next door for $70 and half a sheep! Whilst nothing was new everything was in good condition and was simply given by people who wanted their goods to go to a good home. So, before you are forced to spend money you can't afford, do ASK!  Paula saved her family hundreds of dollars and you can too!