Originally posted by KidK9
Ok, so what would you guys offer on this particular setup if $905 is what they quoted you at.
I wouldn't offer them less....
I would try to get more....
You still need an exposure suit, tanks and weights assuming that you already have mask, fins and (aakkkkppffftttt) snorkel from taking the class.
How about negotiating either free or reduced rental on these items for a period of time until you can afford to buy them.
You will probably also need air for the tank.
How about an air card or two... or three... each. The art of negotiating cannot be learned without practice but at least you see the potential.
Negotiate items that you need but do not directly take money out of their till (and these items are often thrown in as inducements by a progressive LDS.)
Now for the coup de grace: Who can resist more money? Shop keepers are geared toward beating back lower offers. If you come at them with a higher offer you throw them out of their game plan.
I might even offer more....
To get even more....
"I know you are asking $905 for this package.... but since both my girl friend and I are buying...."
They immediately go into negotiating resistance mode.
".... I want to offer you $1000."
Pause for effect looking down as if thinking. Don't drag this out if they remain silent but if they ask "Why?" or gasp and exclaim "What?" you have them in a good place.
Explain your needs and intent to purchase the additional needed items from them. Explain the uselessness of this present purchase without those extra needed items. Explain how they can help... how they can not only make this present sale possible and meaningful but also secure your future purchases. Don't take more than 15 seconds getting this across and then shut up. Wait... patiently.... even if the first comments are protests.... stand there and wait.... saying nothing, looking down and only occasionally looking up.
If they appear intractable... simply say, "Well, thank you, please think about it and give me a call." Walk out still looking down. If the are the only LDS in town and you are committed to buying from them you might have to go back the next day and re-enter into negotiations... moving either your offer up to get more or down accepting less but keep the target moving.
Settle in your mind ahead of time that you
must win some concession in the negotiations.
BTW.... many years ago I made it a practice to get an air card for every major piece of gear purchased. I didn't ever use them because they usually gave me air or I filled while at work at the FD. After several years I had quite a few cards. I took the cards in one day and they gave me store credit for the value since I didn't need the cards.
