Buying new appliances, whether it’s a fridge, a microwave or a toaster, can be stressful! It’s easy to get confused with so many different brands and models available, all offering different features and options but here are a couple of simple tips that will keep you on track and hopefully make a difficult decision a little easier:
- Start with your budget! This is really one of the first things to consider when buying a new appliance … how much can you afford to spend? Some purchases will be planned whereas others will come out of the blue, but either way, you need to decide on your budget and stick to it. There can be huge variations in prices between brands but there’s no point looking at a $3000 oven if your budget will only stretch to $1500. By all means look at models that are a little above your price range because you might be able to negotiate a lower price but if you don’t have realistic expectations, you might be disappointed.
- Measure! Make sure you know the size of the space that your new appliance is intended for … if you don’t, you could be asking for trouble. Measure the height, depth and width of the space, write the measurements down on a checklist and take that information with you to the shops. Also take note of anything that might impact on the space like powerpoints, hinges, overhead cupboards, pipes, etc.
- Do some research! It’s a good idea to jump online and do a little homework before you even leave home. Doing some research will help you decide on a reliable brand, get an idea of pricing, figure out which features are important to you and maybe even let you know if there are any special offers available like discounts or cashbacks. It’s so easy to feel pressured by a Salesperson once you finally make it into the store, so arm yourself with as much information as you can so that you can make an informed decision based on facts and not emotion.
- Make a list. Once you’ve done some research, you’ll hopefully have begun to form a clearer picture in your mind of what you’re after. For example, if you are looking for a fridge you might consider what size you want, do you want the freezer on the top or the bottom or do you want a side-by-side model, what is the capacity of the fridge and freezer, do you want an ice or water dispenser, how long is the warranty, how much is delivery, are the shelves glass or plastic, how many crisper drawers does the fridge have and so on. Draw up a checklist and take it with you with some extra paper and a pen for making notes. Don’t simply rely on your memory because there might be a lot to remember and it will be easy to forget all the facts, figures and pricing.
- Talk to family, friends and work mates. Some of the best recommendations you can get will be from people you know. They will be able to tell you about the brands and models they own and whether or not they are happy with the product. They will be able to detail features that they like and features that they don’t. Their advice can really help you make a good decision.
- Energy and Water Efficiency. With the rising cost of electricity and water, this is a really important consideration and some products and models will be more energy and water efficient than others. It might be worth spending a little extra now to get a more energy or water efficient appliance, otherwise the additional electricity or water charges may cost you more in the long run.
- Shop around and allow plenty of time. Don’t buy the first item you see from the first store you walk into. Be prepared to walk away and check out other shops. You can always go back to the original store if you prove to yourself they actually had the best deal. Also, choosing a major appliance is important and time consuming, so give yourself enough time to do it properly and don’t rush.
- Leave the kids at home. You don’t want to make a rash decision and buy something you’re not sure about just to get out of the store in a hurry because the kids have pushed you to the edge of insanity. Leave them at home and then you can concentrate on buying your new appliance.
- Negotiate! Most importantly, ask for a discount and find out what finance options are available. Once you’ve got the best deal, consider how you will pay for it. Is interest-free an option and, if so, what are the terms and conditions or does the retailer offer a significant discount for cash? For some people, asking these questions can be very intimidating but try to pluck up the courage. You’ve worked hard for your money, so don’t be afraid to ask for a discount or a better deal. The worst thing that can happen is the Salesperson can so no but these days most retailers expect to negotiate and realise they need to be competitive so, go on, ask … what have you got to lose?
- Take a friend. If you’re easily overwhelmed or intimidate by high pressure Sales people, take a friend or hubby for back up and moral support.
If you find yourself needing a new appliance of any kind, do you’re homework, hit the shops with confidence, remember some of these tips and work hard to track down the best deal you can.
So tell me, what was the last appliance you needed to buy, were you happy with your choice and did you get a great deal?
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