3 ways to save big
With the recession wreaking havoc, SALE! signs abound. But a lower price doesn't mean a great deal. Three places to find true steals. Illustrations by Tamara Shopsin.
Hype: Liquidation sales are the place to go for rock-bottom prices.
Real deal: Survivors
Major chains like Circuit City and KB Toys are vanishing. But in the first months of a liquidation sale, stores generally hike prices to the manufacturer's full retail price and discount just 10% from there. So hit the retail rival. To compete, it'll undercut the liquidator by 10% to 30% - and the store will be around if you have a problem with your purchase later on.
NEXT: Travel
Real deal: Survivors
Major chains like Circuit City and KB Toys are vanishing. But in the first months of a liquidation sale, stores generally hike prices to the manufacturer's full retail price and discount just 10% from there. So hit the retail rival. To compete, it'll undercut the liquidator by 10% to 30% - and the store will be around if you have a problem with your purchase later on.
NEXT: Travel
Last updated March 06 2009: 4:48 PM ET