Yahoo Finance EOFY sales: 5 Expert tips to shop smart and save
Don’t be fooled by tricky advertising in the mid-year sales.
If you’re looking to upgrade your home appliances and you’re excited about the end-of-financial-year (EOFY) sales, it can be easy to fall victim to FOMO.
So, to help you navigate the sales, avoid the duds and find the right product without breaking the bank, consumer group CHOICE has revealed its expert tips.
"If you've had your eye on a special product or appliance, the end-of-financial-year sales can be a great time to find a bargain,” CHOICE director of reviews and testing Matthew Steen said.
“But remember, the sales are designed to make you feel like you're missing out - do your research and buy the product on sale if it's right for you.”
Also read: Coles EOFY trick to save shoppers $93.50
Also read: Aussie shoppers warned about EOFY sales
1. Stick to the basics (don't be swayed by fancy features)
"Newer appliances tend to come with fancy features, adding more money to the price tag for things you might not even use,” Steen said.
“If you're trying to save money, it's best to stick to the basics. Decide on the features that are your 'must haves' and the ones that are nice but possibly not worth paying more for.”
2. Buy an older model
Steen said chasing the latest and greatest appliances might not be the best way to save your hard-earned money.
“Consider looking for older models that have been replaced by the latest versions. They may be almost identical, give or take a few features or upgrades, and you'll often find them at a discounted price," he said.
3. Do your research and consider alternative brands
"You don't always get what you pay for. Our tests often find that cheaper products can perform just as well as, or ever better than, the pricier big brands,” Steen said.
“Checking reviews before you buy may also reveal a cheaper brand that performs well that you may not have considered before.”
4. Always ask for discounts
Steen said while online shopping may be convenient, it is worth visiting a physical store to snag a bigger discount.
"It's worth heading into a store and directly asking a sales person for their best price after you've compared prices online,” he said.
“If you're confident and have done your research, you can usually shave a decent amount off the price tag by haggling. Always ask 'what's the best price you can do?' and go from there.”
5. Don't pay for extended warranties that offer little value
"Extended warranties are often no more than a sneaky sales tactic,” Steen said.
“Ask the salesperson, or read the fine print, and find out what guarantees it gives you above and beyond what you are already entitled to under Australian Consumer Law. Otherwise, you're paying for rights you already have."
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