Have you priced new appliances recently? First, they’re all over the map, with some dealers offering far less or more than others for the same models.
And, yes, prices have most likely increased substantially since you bought that range back in 1998. Much of this has to do with demand. The pandemic brought on a rash of folks performing home improvements and appliance sales skyrocketed.
“Some retailers are reporting a two month wait for certain brands of refrigerators or dryers,”
according to Leslie Brinkley at ABC7news.com.
If you’re in the market for a new appliance or two, take the time to strategize the purchase. In the end, it’s the preparation that will save you money.
Know your needs
While the bells and whistles that smart-home appliance offer are cool, do you really need them? If you’re on a budget, keep in mind that these features provide “… no basic performance benefit,” according to Andrea Waroch at clark.com.
Check out what’s on offer to get an idea of the features you truly need, such as a timer on a range or microwave.
Make a list of the features you need and stick to it if you hope to save money on appliances.
Consider used appliances
A friend recently purchased a brand new, never used Whirlpool range. She found it posted on her local NextDoor.com neighborhood by a couple who bought a new home and wanted stainless steel appliances (this range is black).
Our friend checked the home improvement stores and found the same model priced at almost double what her neighbors were asking. Yes, she snatched it up immediately.
If you haven’t joined your neighborhood on Nextdoor.com, you should consider doing so. Not only will you be kept up to date on the happenings in your area, but get to know your neighbors as well. The for-sale section is full of lovely merchandise at low prices.
You’ll also find used appliances for sale online at:
Don’t neglect the local brick-and-mortar stores that specialize in used appliances.
Buying used means that you’ll have to find a way to transport the appliance to your home and a way to dispose of the old one. Then, there is the cost of installation. If you can’t do it yourself you may need to hire someone to do it for you.
Tack these charges onto the price of the appliance when comparing the price to the cost of new appliances. Although, quite often, the big home improvement stores charge a delivery and take-away fee as well as for installation.
Scratch and dent
If you don’t mind a cosmetic defect or two, many retailers offer what are known as “out-of-box,” “scratch-and-dent” and “customer return” appliances at reduced prices. How much reduced?
According to Waroch,
you may save “… anywhere from 10 to over 50 percent on the retail price of appliances.”
Shop for these appliances online at American Freight (formerly Sears Outlet) and Best Buy Outlet. You might also check local dealers and the big home improvement stores.
Negotiate for a discount
“According to Consumer Reports, only 33 percent of surveyed shoppers negotiated on large appliance deals,” according to Waroch.
Of those who did try to haggle, 75% of them got an average of $100 off the price of the appliance.
“If the sales associate or manager is unable to lower the price, he or she may offer complimentary delivery and installation or free haul away, which is a tremendous savings. Ultimately, you never know unless you ask!” Waroch concludes.
Steer clear of extended warranties
That is the advice offered by the experts at Consumer Reports and it’s one of the easiest ways to save money on appliances.
Just say “no thanks”
Warranties are big money makers for retailers. In fact, sales of these warranties have become “a $40 billion business,” according to Consumer Reports.
“The chance that your refrigerator or dishwasher actually needs a repair during the extended warranty period is pretty low,” HomeAdvisor.com’s Dan DiClerico tells Consumer Reports.
Appliances typically come with a manufacturer’s warranty, which is usually offers sufficient protection.
