If you're watching what you spend - and who isn't these days - you've probably already discovered that you can find great prices on just about anything you need on the Internet. There are some very good reasons for this. Internet marketers don't have to pay rent for brick and mortar stores. They don't have the high overhead of real world showplaces. Instead, they pay the much lower 'rent' on their web site space, which allows them to pass their savings on to you. That means that whether you're looking for a great price on computers and equipment or very special piece of lingerie for a very special date, your dollar goes further on the Internet.
It doesn't mean, however, that every web storefront has the best prices - or even prices that will beat those you can get just around the corner. The word 'wholesale' in the store's name and advertisements isn't a guarantee that you're getting the very best prices you can find. Here are some tips on finding the best deals on the Internet for anything from computers to fragrances.
1. Do your homework so you know what you're getting.
Don't just shop for 'computers'. The more you know about the product you want to buy, the easier it will be for you to recognize an incredible price - and avoid the rip-offs. Being an informed shopper is doubly important online, where you can't touch and handle the merchandise before you buy.
2. Research prices for the items that you want.
Don't snap up the first deal that you see. Shop just as you would in the real world. Check the prices against other merchants, both online and offline. Keep in mind that web retailers often get their inventory from the same dealers - so if one website has an awesome deal on the Xbox 360, chances are that others do as well. Shop around for the best deal.
3. Don't forget to factor in shipping, handling and insurance when comparing prices.
Even with shipping and handling, you'll almost always find a better deal on electronics like digital cameras, computers and Xbox systems online. There may be a major difference in the cost of shipping from one website to another, though. Always figure up the total cost of your purchase when you're comparing prices online.
As far as insurance goes - do you need it? If your credit card is one that covers any purchase made with it, skip paying for double insurance.
4. If you're buying garments, be sure to check any info on sizing that the website offers.
Keep in mind that many online retailers buy their inventory overseas where sizing conventions may differ. Check with the retailer's web site to see if they offer any info on sizing. This is especially important if you're ordering lingerie, which may not be returnable. No matter how great the price, it's not a bargain if you can't wear it.
5. Specialty retailers don't always offer the best prices.
We have a built-in predisposition to believe that specialists are best, but the best prices are often to be found at 'superstores'. There are online superstores as well - websites that specialize in finding the best bargains on all the things you want most. From camping and outdoor gear, night vision equipment, Xbox systems, digital cameras and computers to designer fragrances, high ticket garments and fanciful lingerie, you can find the best prices on any of them all in one spot. When you find an outlet web site that always seems to have the best bargains from the internet all in one place, bookmark it so you can check back frequently for the best deals.
The rules for finding the best deals online aren't very different from those for finding the best deals anywhere else - you just have far more choices and options. Next time you need a gift for someone special - and who's more special than yourself? - fire up your browser and get ready to do some serious shopping. Follow the simple rules above, and you're guaranteed to find the best prices in the world on everything from computers to lingerie.
Chris Robertson is an author of Majon International, one of the worlds MOST popular internet marketing companies on the web. Learn more about Majon's Shopping - General directory
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