Ever heard the saying, buyer beware? Well now is the perfect time to heed that warning.
I’ve seen so called Black Friday deals popping up all over and some even claim to extend until the day before Christmas!
Well why am I saying buyer beware? It’s a number of reasons really. I’ll list them below for you, but please note the main reason these places are in business is not to give you the best deal ever, it’s to make a profit for themselves. And the higher the profit, the better for them.
Well let’s tell you my personal story before I give you the reasons to beware. Last year this time, I went into my regular supermarket to pick up a few grocery items. Then in one corner I noticed that there was a buzz. You can tell when something is on special, can’t you?
So of course I sauntered over to see what all the fuss was about. It was massive big screen television sets for only £99! So of course I grabbed one. I was thinking I couldn’t let the bargain pass me by. Somehow I’d feel cheated if all these people got one and I didn’t. Now that wouldn’t be fair, would it?
When I got home I chastised myself for my stupidity! I say stupidity because:
I did not need a TV at all!
There are several other things I could have got/done with that money
I ended up giving it away some 5 to 6 months later
So , don’t be fooled. Because there’s a sale on, doesn’t mean you have to participate. Be money wise guys!
If you check the prices of some of the items before the sale begins, then you’ll realise that you are not getting a bargain at all! There are some really cunning business people who will do anything to make it rich off us!
If you’re doing your shopping online, make sure you read the fine print regarding returns and other relevant policies. Check to see if they will offer refunds or even exchange items if you are not happy with what you have purchased.
Also look out for companies that require you to sign up to some long term contracts that you may no longer be interested in after you get the deal you’re after.
Buy only from reputable dealers or from dealers who trusted people can recommend. If you are hearing about the site or dealer only now that the Black Friday sales are on, beware. One way to tell if a website may be shady and only after your cash, is if they have glaring grammar and spelling mistakes on their site. Do beware!
If you have the slightest uneasy feeling when handing over your card details over the web, follow your gut instinct. It might just not be legitimate.
Don’t do like me, make sure that the products you are buying are actually things that you need. It’s a waste of time, effort and money to buy products just because you can.
With all that being said, do spend the time to enjoy some special quality moments with your family. The time does go by fast especially when you plan for fun activities that will keep the family together over the festive season.
And if you do want my suggestions for Black Friday deals, check this post. Remember, beware, and only get what you actually need.
All the very best and do let us know if you have any other tips for being aware of the hype around Black Friday deals.
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