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Internet Shopping Tips
Use the technology of the internet and the world wide web
to save time and money while shopping from your home.
Shopping at your fingertips. You don’t have to get dressed
and leave home. You don’t have to hassle with crowded
stores and malls. You don’t have to fight for a parking
space. What could be more convenient? But, beware. Are you
spending more online than you would by actually going to the
store? There are ways to spot a bargain, save money and avoid
paying too much while shopping online.
1. Pay close attention to store circulars and mailings. When
you spot an article on sale in the store, check out the store’s
website to see if it is on sale there as well. Remember, you
will also be paying for shipping charges online that you wouldn’t
have at the store. Be sure to take that cost into consideration
when determining the item’s total price.
2. When searching for an item, be sure to check out as many
websites for companies carrying that item as you can. A smaller,
but reputable company may offer the same item at a more attractive
price in order to lure customers. Also, many stores run online
specials that they do not advertise anywhere else but at their
website. You may find yourself spending five dollars extra
for shipping but the website may be offering a ten dollar
off coupon for first time buyers.
3. Shop for coupons. Register with a bargain hunter’s
newsletter e-mail service. There are many companies out there
who make money by trying to save you money. And, there are
many, many internet sites that offer first time consumers
substantial savings in the hopes that you’ll return
to their site.
4. Search for items via search engines. Try running a search
for the item you’re looking for using just the item’s
name. Next, run another search and this time add the word,
“wholesale” to your query.
5. Search or browse online auctions sites. There are many
to choose from as online auctions have come into their own
as a growing business and can offer the consumer substantial
savings by buying previously owned items. However, if it is
new that you’re looking for, don’t despair. New
items can also be purchased through auctions, you may just
have to look a little harder. Another positive aspect about
auctions sites to keep in mind is that to purchase an item
you do not necessarily have to use a credit card. A vast number
of sellers will accept checks of money orders that can be
sent through the mail. It may take a little longer to receive
your item but you will save money by not accruing interest
and finance charges.
In the beginning, online shopping can appear intimidating.
You may have fears and doubts about sending your personal
information out into cyber space. But, take heart. Companies
are aware of the concerns of consumers and the majority of
websites available have taken extreme precautions to protect
you, the consumer as well as themselves. Their ultimate goal
is to get you back to their site and if they can offer protection
and any guarantees then it’s that much better. Remember
to read the fine print. Always carefully review and disclaimers
or agreements. Do not sign up or register for anything you
don’t want to receive. Again, the internet is business.
Big business. And, there are companies and corporations whose
work consists of making the world wide web a safe and enjoyable
place to visit.
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