By Laura Patrecca
From Kiplinger’s Personal Finance
Negotiating Tips for Home Services, Repairs, and Appliances
When it comes to your home, negotiation doesn’t have to stop at the purchase price. You can also negotiate home services, repairs, and appliances using these helpful tips.
TV and Internet Bills
Start by researching prices from several cable and internet companies. A reliable resource for internet prices is BroadbandNow.com, according to Ben Kurland of Experian Consumer Services. Take note of the quotes you receive and prepare your key talking points before contacting your provider.
Instead of reaching out through email or online chat, call your provider directly. When connected, indicate that you want to cancel your service. This will likely transfer you to a retention agent or escalation agent whose job is to offer you a discount to keep you as a loyal customer.
During the call, be polite and friendly. Don’t accept the agent’s first offer, as there is usually room for further concessions. While cash savings are possible, providers often prefer to offer service enhancements such as faster internet speeds or additional TV channels. If these benefits align with your needs, focus on maximizing the value you receive.
Home Renovations and Repairs
Prices for contractors can vary significantly for the same service. To ensure you get the best price, obtain three to five quotes, advises Kevin Brasler, executive editor at Consumers’ Checkbook. Provide each potential contractor with specific details about your project and let them know you are considering multiple offers.
Remember that a higher quote doesn’t always mean better quality work, and a lower price doesn’t necessarily indicate subpar service. Look for licensed and insured contractors with positive online reviews or references. In addition to negotiating the price, you can offer perks such as a larger deposit, extended project timeline, or cash payment to incentivize a lower price.
Major Appliances
Before negotiating for major appliances, conduct thorough research. Once you have identified the models you are interested in, reach out to sales managers at local stores via email or phone. Let them know that you are comparing prices and will choose the store offering the lowest price.
While it’s worth trying to negotiate at national chains like Home Depot and Lowe’s, independent stores often have more flexibility on price. According to a Consumer Reports survey, 64 percent of those who attempted to negotiate at an independent retailer were successful.
When negotiating, don’t limit yourself to price alone. Ask for additional perks such as free delivery, installation, or removal of your old appliance if these services are not already included.
(Laura Patrecca is a contributing writer at Kiplinger Personal Finance magazine. For more on this and similar money topics, visit Kiplinger.com.)
©2023 The Kiplinger Washington Editors, Inc. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
The Epoch Times copyright © 2023. The views and opinions expressed are those of the authors. They are meant for general informational purposes only and should not be construed or interpreted as a recommendation or solicitation. The Epoch Times does not provide investment, tax, legal, financial planning, estate planning, or any other personal finance advice. The Epoch Times holds no liability for the accuracy or timeliness of the information provided.
