Get the Most Bang For Your Buck

by Homesessive

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Ever noticed that mattresses are marked down at the same time every year? Well, so are power tools and cookware. Here's a month by month guide to great deals.

When it comes to shopping for home goods, the key to getting the most bang for your buck is simple -- plan ahead. So, to help our Homesessive readers do just that, we spoke with the experts at Consumer Reports to find out the best times of the year to find great deals on particular items for your home.

"We compile our list by speaking with our testers, who know their products manufacturing cycles, and our own in house market research division, which can also track pricing," says Amanda Walker, senior project editor at Consumer Reports. They also speak with industry groups like the Consumer Electronics Association and the National Home Furnishing Association to find out why some things go on sale when they do.

Sales are often triggered by manufacturing or seasonal cycles. For example, indoor furniture tends to go on sale some time after the furniture shows in High Point, North Carolina, which take place two times a year in April and October. "When you see snow blowers on sale in August and September," she says. "It's a good bet that stores are trying to cut rates on older inventory."

Keep in mind that none of these tips are set in stone. "Over the years we've seen a trend of items going on sale at the same time each year, but that can change at any time," explains Walker. "Most of this depends on the retailers' inventories; if one store manages to sell their entire grill inventory one year, there will be no sale."

But just because there's no sale, doesn't mean you can't get a great deal. "Three words for you: negotiate, negotiate, negotiate," says Walker. "In-store shoppers should go when retailers are less busy, like the early morning or late in the day on weekdays, so salespeople won't be in as big a rush. Ask for a better price, but always be polite. If they won't budge, ask to speak with a manager who is authorized to negotiate."

Are you ready to get your shop on?

View the gallery above for the best times to buy.

Photo Credit: Alamy