20 Unexpected Things You Can Save Money By Negotiating

Talking about prices isn’t just for big buys like houses or cars, it’s a handy way to save every day. Still, most don’t try to get better prices, missing chances to keep cash in their pockets.

Recent research found 80% of businesses worldwide don’t bargain, causing a 63.3% drop in profits. This shows how much haggling matters and how stopping the “no-haggle” habit can lead to unexpected money wins.

In this article, we’ll share 20 things you can bargain for, plus easy steps to save more. From rent to monthly bills, we’ll give you simple tricks to make haggling stress-free and worth your time.

Have you successfully negotiated on something you didn’t know you could? Share your experiences in the comments below! Also, let us know how much you’ve saved using some of the tips we’ve shared, or share any money-saving tips of your own.

Furniture Purchases

Getting furniture isn’t always about paying the listed price, especially at smaller shops. Many stores set prices with some flexibility, so you can ask for lower costs or extras.

Mentioning interest in several items helps you get a better price. Check floor samples or items with minor flaws, as these often sell cheap. Even if you want new things, knowing there are options helps you bargain.

Adding requests like free delivery or longer guarantees can help a lot. Stores often agree to deals when they need space for new stock. Being open to different styles or colors can save you more money.

Hotel Rates

Booking a hotel room often comes with chances to ask for a better price, mainly when travel is slow. Hotels would rather fill rooms cheaply than leave them empty, so you can push for a good deal.

Check if they have hidden discounts, like rates for AAA members or business travelers, even if not listed. Try adding freebies like parking, breakfast, or later check-out to your stay. These extras add value without costing more.

Being open to different dates or room styles can help you get a lower price. Hotels often agree to deals for stays mid-week or for less popular rooms.

Jewelry and Watches

Luxury goods like jewelry and watches often cost much more than needed, so you can haggle. Smaller shops or local jewelers tend to adjust prices easier than big chain stores.

Mentioning you might buy more items can help you get a better deal. Stores might lower prices if you buy several things, which works well for everyone. Ask for extras like free polishing or later size changes as part of the agreement.

Jewelers often want to sell stock quickly during busy times, so they’re more open to deals. Staying patient but firm can help you get luxury items for much less money.

Rent Costs

Negotiating your rent might feel intimidating, but it’s entirely possible with the right approach. Landlords often prefer retaining a reliable tenant over facing the hassle of a vacancy, making them more open to discussions. 

Be it for a renewal or a new lease, highlighting your responsible payment history or offering to sign a longer contract can work to your advantage. In competitive markets, you can strengthen your case by researching comparable rents in your area.

Showing evidence that similar units are renting for less can create leverage in your conversation. Also, suggesting to take care of minor maintenance or agreeing to pay early can tip the scales in your favor.

Medical Bills

Few people realize that medical bills can often be negotiated, especially for uninsured or underinsured patients. 

Hospitals and clinics sometimes offer discounts for upfront payments or financial hardships. Even if you’re insured, reviewing your bills for errors or excessive charges is worth the effort. According to recent reports, up to 80% of medical bills contain errors, which can be corrected by requesting an itemized bill. 

Start by contacting the billing department and asking about payment plans or discounts. Many providers have policies in place to reduce costs for those who ask. A polite but firm approach can often lead to surprising results, including substantial discounts or interest-free payment terms.

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Cable and Internet Services

Monthly bills for cable and internet services stack up fast, but they’re among the simplest costs to discuss lowering. Companies often have special deals or discounts for existing customers, but they usually won’t share these unless asked.

Calling support and sharing worries about high bills can get you savings right away. Being ready matters when talking to telecom companies. Look up what other providers charge and their deals first, so you can mention them during the call.

Saying you might switch to another company can push the agent to offer similar or better prices. Trying to negotiate near the end of your current plan or discount period can also help you get more.

Wedding Services

Weddings can cost a lot, but many services for the event can be discussed. Providers like photographers, florists, and caterers often adjust their prices, particularly for dates outside busy seasons or smaller gatherings.

Combining services is another smart way to save. Hiring one vendor for multiple needs, like photos and video, might get you a deal. Vendors like handling several tasks for a single client and may offer lower rates.

Cutting time or simplifying details can also help. Fewer flower displays or a less fancy menu can lower costs while keeping things nice.

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Jobs

According to recent research, two-thirds of US workers who made attempts to negotiate starting salaries said they got more than was originally offered. Negotiating aspects of a job offer, such as salary, benefits, or work conditions, is a valuable skill that can significantly impact your career satisfaction. 

Employers often expect candidates to negotiate and may have room in their budget for adjustments. Beyond salary, you can negotiate perks like flexible work hours, additional vacation days, or professional development opportunities. 

Many employers are open to adjusting non-monetary aspects of the job to make the offer more attractive. Timing and tone are critical in these conversations. Discussing adjustments after receiving an offer but before formally accepting ensures you have leverage without appearing indecisive.

Car Repairs

Car fixes cost a lot but often have room to talk prices down. Many repairers will agree to lower service fees or use cheaper parts instead of pricey brand-name ones.

Asking for a lower price when paying cash often helps. Small shops like quick payments and might charge less. Getting to know a good mechanic over time also helps you get better deals.

Scheduling repairs during quiet times, like midweek or outside busy seasons, can help too. Repairers are often more open to lowering prices when work is slow.

Pet Care Services

Pet care services, including grooming and boarding, often have negotiable pricing, especially with independent providers. Local groomers or pet sitters may agree to discounts for regular clients or bundled services like multiple grooming sessions. 

By demonstrating loyalty, you can open up opportunities for savings that benefit both you and the service provider. Asking about promotions or off-peak scheduling is another effective strategy. 

Grooming services are usually busier during weekends, so requesting appointments during weekdays can result in lower prices. Similarly, boarding facilities might offer reduced rates for extended stays or for bringing your own pet supplies.

Appliance Repairs

Repairing a broken appliance can be a frustrating expense, but it’s often possible to negotiate the cost of the service. Many repair businesses are small, locally owned operations that have flexibility in pricing.

Negotiations can also include asking about the cost of parts and if they can source used or refurbished components. Repair technicians often know where to find discounted parts, and agreeing to this option can reduce the overall expense.

Many companies are willing to take on discounted jobs during these periods to maintain a steady workflow. A friendly approach combined with clear communication can make all the difference.

Home Security Systems

The price of home security systems often includes equipment costs, installation fees, and monthly monitoring charges, all of which are negotiable. Security companies frequently offer promotional rates or discounts to attract new customers.

Requesting a customized package tailored to your specific needs is another useful approach. By eliminating unnecessary features or opting for fewer cameras, you can reduce your total costs while still securing your home effectively. 

If you’re an existing customer, renegotiating your contract or inquiring about loyalty discounts can also lower monthly monitoring fees. Highlighting your satisfaction with their service while pointing out competitor offers may encourage the company to match or beat those prices.

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Tech Purchases

Negotiating on electronics, such as laptops or smartphones, may seem unlikely, but many retailers have flexibility in their pricing. Asking about open-box items, refurbished products, or clearance sales can significantly lower your costs. 

Also, tech stores may offer price matching if you find a lower advertised price at a competitor. Having this information readily available during your negotiation strengthens your position. You can also request bundled deals, such as including accessories or extended warranties, to increase the overall value of your purchase.

Timing your purchase during annual sales events, like Black Friday or back-to-school promotions, is another effective strategy. Retailers are more open to negotiations during these high-volume periods as they aim to meet sales targets.

Home Cleaning Services

Professional cleaning services are often more flexible than you might think, especially with smaller, locally owned businesses. Offering to schedule regular visits can encourage them to lower their prices in exchange for steady work.

Asking if you can get a discount by using your own cleaning supplies is another good idea. Many cleaners are happy to lower their rates if they don’t have to bring their own materials. This small change can save you a lot of money over time while keeping your home clean.

Combining services, like house cleaning with laundry or window washing, can also help cut costs. Cleaning companies usually like customers who book several services and may offer a special price for a package.

Subscription Boxes

Subscription box services, which include beauty items and meal kits, often give discounts to new buyers or those who sign up for longer periods. Contacting customer service and showing interest in staying can help you get special offers.

Stopping your subscription and waiting for return deals is another good idea. Companies usually contact past customers with lower prices to bring them back. These discounts can be big, especially for expensive boxes.

Choosing seasonal plans instead of monthly ones can also cut costs. Businesses prefer customers who agree to longer plans, so they may offer better prices to save on getting new buyers.

Event Rentals

Renting equipment for events, like tables, chairs, or sound systems, usually has prices that can be changed. Small rental companies often offer lower rates, especially if you rent a lot or come back again.

You can also save money by asking if there is a discount for picking up and returning the items yourself. Many rental places add delivery fees, which you don’t have to pay if you handle the transport.

Booking rentals during quiet times, such as weekdays or months without holidays, often gets you better prices. Companies want to fill empty spots and are more ready to lower costs when business is slow.

Photography Sessions

Booking a photography session, be it for portraits, events, or professional headshots, often comes with opportunities to negotiate. Independent photographers are typically more open to discussing rates, especially if you’re flexible with scheduling or session duration. 

Requesting digital-only packages or fewer edited photos can also reduce costs without compromising the quality of the session. Many photographers charge extra for prints or albums, which you can choose to order later at your convenience. 

Building a relationship with a photographer through repeat bookings can also lead to better deals. Loyal clients often receive discounted rates or additional services as a thank-you for their continued support.

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Smartphone Repairs

Repairing a smartphone doesn’t always mean paying the full price quoted by the store. Independent repair shops are often willing to negotiate, especially if you request multiple repairs or additional services. 

Timing your repair during less busy days, such as weekdays, can improve your chances of securing a discount. Technicians often prefer to keep business steady during slower periods, making them more open to price adjustments. 

Building a good relationship with your repair provider is another effective strategy. Regular customers often receive preferential pricing and faster service as a gesture of appreciation. By being polite and straightforward, you can turn a routine repair into an opportunity for long-term savings.

Childcare Services

Childcare services, such as babysitting or daycare, often have more flexibility in pricing than parents realize. Small daycare centers or individual providers are usually open to discussing discounts for siblings or long-term arrangements.

Requesting a reduced rate for paying in advance is another smart tactic. Many providers appreciate the financial security of upfront payments and are willing to lower their rates for clients who offer it.

Flexibility with hours or days can also lead to reduced fees. Providers may offer discounts if you avoid peak hours or select part-time care. Clear communication about your needs ensures that you find a balance between affordability and reliable service.

Landscaping Services

Landscaping services, like lawn care and garden upkeep, often have more flexible prices than you might think. Local landscapers or small companies usually can adjust their rates, especially for long-term work or big jobs.

Asking about seasonal deals is a smart idea. Landscapers may give discounts during slow times, like winter or early spring, to get new customers. Booking services then can help you get better prices without losing quality.

Referrals and reviews are useful when talking about price. If you offer to write a good review or tell neighbors about the landscaper, you might get a discount as a thank you.

Take Charge of Your Savings

Negotiation is not just a skill; it is a way to help you make better money choices. By using the tips shared here, you can lower your costs and make your budget go further. Remember, whether it is rent, repairs, or pet care, asking the right questions can bring you surprise discounts.

Start small and try with one or two things first. Over time, you will feel more sure and watch your savings add up. Why pay full price when you have the chance to save?

We want to hear how much you have saved using these ideas! What other things have you successfully talked down the price on? Share your tips and stories in the comments to help others save more too.

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