Bargain-Hunting Tips

Whether you’re headed for Divisoria or the Greenhills Shopping Center, use this info to score the best prices:

1. The farther the stall is from the entrance, the cheaper the merchandise gets. Prime spots pay higher rent, and the cost is reflected on the price of the items. So, if you have the time, as the first store you see, then go inside or head to the upper floors to compare prices. Always haggle; ask for the “last price”.

2. But don’t over-canvass. If all the five stalls you’ve visited offer the same price, then it’s time to stop asking and decide if you want to buy or not. Tip: These stalls know each other and have decided on a base selling price. In fact, some stalls are owned by just one person, so it would be futile to keep haggling, or worse, lie about a super low price that they know none among them would give.

3. The more, the merrier. Usually, the surefire way to get bigger discounts is to buy more. So, take your friends along when shopping.

4. Bring cash in small denominations. It’s easier to get the price you want if you have the exact amount on hand. Also, the stalls never have enough small bills.

5. But what you want now. For one, the items disappear fast. Also, you don’t know if the vendor will still be around next time. Stall assignments change every month.

6. Everything you see in Greenhills, you’ll find in Divisoria — only a lot cheaper. It’s worth the trip if you want big savings. Be wary of pickpockets.

Here are more tips for you: Bargain Hunting Basics