7 Times It's Okay to Haggle for a Better Price

Most love it when they get a bargain, or believe they get a bargain. Here are seven things you might be able to get for less to keep some money in your pocket.

Mortgage rates. Experts say you should never settle for the first price you’re quoted on for a mortgage rate. After all, a home is likely the largest purchase you’ll ever make in your life and you owe it to yourself to shop around for the rate and terms that suit your situation best. If you’re used to dealing with a specific banking institution, try haggling for the best rate possible.

Stuff at flea markets and garage sales. Never pay what’s on the sticker at these places. Vendors will set their own prices which they will usually drop, but you can’t be shy to ask. It might be that a seller would actually enjoy bantering with you over that vintage light fixture.

Hotel rooms. A hotel with unoccupied rooms isn’t making a profit. They want people in those rooms, so you might want to ask if a lower nightly rate is possible. If they won’t budge on the rate, you could try to negotiate a better room—one with a nicer view or added amenities.

Gym membership. Many gyms have cropped up over the last few years. If you fancy one over the other, yet its rates are higher, let them know you might be using the treadmill somewhere else unless they can match the lower membership rate. If they want to make money, you may get a better rate.

Insurance rates. Your insurance provider doesn’t want to lose you as a customer. If you’ve been a loyal client and threaten to walk away from hiked rates, they may offer you a better deal to get you to stay on.

Services for your home. If you’re looking to do home renovations, get a few quotes and then go back to a company or person you liked and ask them to match the lowest price if it wasn’t theirs. You might be able to get a better price if the work is done off-season or if you pay cash upfront.

Returned or slightly damaged items. Stores will typically offer returned items or those with small damages, at reduced prices. But it doesn’t hurt to ask for more off. Just point out the flaws. They want to unload these items and you might just get lucky!