9 Rules For Becoming A Better Bargain Hunter

1. Nothing Is A Bargain If You Don't Need It

Consider whether you actually need and will use the item you are about to buy, even if you’re parting with only a dollar or two. You’ve come across a beautiful set of antique andirons for next to nothing at a flea market? Wonderful, but remember, you don’t have a fireplace. So you’re not really getting a bargain at all—in fact, you’re throwing away your hard-earned money.

You’ll be getting a true bargain if you buy something you need at a good price, or find it for free—like $1 off the price of a box of breakfast cereal, or some free samples of shampoo and conditioner, or a loan guaranty that allows you to buy a house without a down payment.