How to Bargain When Buying a New Mattress
Of all the purchases we make, very few are negotiable for a better price, and most of them are at flea markets, antique shows, and real estate sales.
But there is another bargaining opportunity that many people miss or don’t know: buying a new mattress. In fact, according to a recent Consumer Reports survey , 23% of people who recently bought a new mattress said they had tried to negotiate a lower price, and most report success.
While this isn’t something that will work with every mattress, it can be useful every time if it means saving money on a big purchase. Here’s what you need to know.
How to bargain when buying a new mattress
In addition to negotiating the best price when buying a mattress in a showroom, this is also possible when buying a mattress online. According to Consumer Reports , bargaining when buying mattresses online involves talking (i.e. negotiating) with a customer service representative, either by phone or by chatting through their website.
For the most part, the negotiation strategies are the same. Here’s what to do:
Do your homework
If you are going to bargain, you must go prepared . This means knowing the features you need (eg materials, warranty, firmness), how much you are willing/able to pay, and the current prices for mattresses that meet your needs at various prices.
Even if you’re planning on making a purchase in person, do some online comparison shopping first to determine a good price. If you’re shopping for a mattress online, lay out your topics of conversation before speaking to a customer service representative by phone or chat.
Be polite
Some people equate bargaining and a “hard deal” with aggressiveness that borders on rudeness. But this is not necessary. You will probably have better luck if you are firm but polite.
Ask for the best price
It’s almost too simple to mention, but it works. “Even the customer who does nothing but ask for a price reduction is more likely to be successful,” says Martin Lachter, a mattress researcher at Consumer Reports .
Remind yourself that mattresses are marked up by at least 40-50% , so there is plenty of room for discounts.
Competition mention
Don’t be afraid to let the salesperson know that you’re looking around and can get a particular mattress at a lower price from a competing store.
Don’t forget about extras.
In addition to trying to get a mattress at a lower price, be sure to ask for free shipping and pickup of your old mattress, as well as any other extras that may be involved.
Leave if needed
If negotiations don’t go your way, you always have the option to leave the store (or end your phone or chat conversation with a customer service rep if you’re shopping online) without buying anything. And if you’ve been polite while haggling, there’s no reason why you can’t go back and buy a mattress if you know it’s the best thing you’re going to do.
If so, get the seller’s full name and contact information, and ask them to put the deal you’ve agreed on in writing (on company letterhead) if it differs from the retailer’s regular selling prices or policies. This way you won’t have to start from scratch if you end up coming back.