Written By: Onyiyechi Roseline Agwu.
Before I even start this post, let me confess I am not a pro at this haggling buhaha but I will let you know what goes on in my mind when I observe others that are professionals! Like our African mothers.
(It is okay to laugh)
You see, I am the type that likes to buy my stuff straight forward. I don’t like too much talk and stress. If I like the item and I have the money, I buy. The times I try to even debate prices, some of the sellers become super insistent that I may end up forfeiting the item (especially if it is not that important). Summary is, I really don’t like wasting my time.
For those who don’t know what haggling is, let me gist you.
In simple terms, it is called negotiation, but this is the African version. So it isn’t that simple.
In Africa, it is common practice for individuals/ buyers to debate the proposed price of an item with the seller for a preferable price until a common price is agreed upon. This is also known as enthusiastic negotiation (as interpreted by me). Remember; there’s a difference between “Proposed price, preferable price and common price”!
This technique called “haggling” is usually initiated by the buyer to get a product at an affordable price and is typically used in community markets and NOT in super markets. While these community markets are depots for these items and typically have their products in bulk quantities, Super markets have fixed prices thereby not leaving room for negotiations.
CRITERIA FOR HAGGLING
You need these skills if you want to do it well. I told you I am not a pro but I can tell you what I have observed.
- You need to be serious: Maybe there is something about physique, demeanor or just an aura that makes sellers think you are suitable to haggle. They just know (I can tell you from experience). However, if you need to negotiate the price just do it oh and save money.
- You need to have a settled price that you wish to buy the item for: Be aware of the common price so that you would know how to negotiate. You can annoy some sellers if you under price their products. Please you do not need to do that, they need profit.
- You need to negotiate friendly: You came to buy items not make enemies. The market is a great place to build cordial relationships with people. Do not allow your presence to be dreaded. You need the products, do not forget that.
- Have a budget: I always make sure to carry a list. It helps to know what I can afford. This helps you when you are negotiating especially if you are able to convince the seller that the money you have available is what you can afford to pay for the product. Some kind sellers will not mind selling especially if you would promise to return and buy next time.
- You need the ability to identify quality: This option is a great one for me. I am very fortunate in picking good quality materials. You have to be observant about texture, appearance, components, these factors help you to know how much a material is worth. If the seller tries to over price, you are well prepared to counter it. If you want quality, please you do not need to under price (not fair at all)
- You do not need to shout: Just a repetition. Like I said earlier, you did not come to the market to make enemies.
- Try and have a consistent person you buy from: You see this point, it is very important. You are more likely to get freebies from a seller you consistently buy from. It is okay to still check others (variety) but try and make one consistent. You will save stress and still get freebies (moreover that is the purpose of the haggling buhaha)
- Ask for prices before going to the market: This helps me a lot. Ask others who have gone to the market before you to give you an update on the prices. It helps you know how much you are willing to get an item. There were times, I went to the market blank about the prices and ended up buying items at exorbitant prices (and I thought I bargained well)
Haggling does not need to be an every time activity. Certain products come at a good price and it is only sensible to buy it without haggling.
Please in a bid to get items at a cheaper price, do not be unkind to those who sell them. Most times people haggle an item until the seller gives it away at a ridiculous price that is unable to give them profit. As much as you want the item cheap, the seller also needs to gain profit. This is not to say that certain sellers try so hard to cheat, and that is why you need prior knowledge before you buy (unless you get plenty money).
If you are a pro buyer, maybe this list is incomplete. Do not hesitate to share your tips in the comment section. You will help a brother or sister who reads this post.
If you are a seller, how do you respond to haggling? Your response in the comment section will also help a brother or sister. Thank you.
