Online or Brick & Morter?

[audioaddict]

Well, I have pretty much decided I am going to get a new Samsung HLT5687s I had been planning on getting it online for $1968 with free shipping and no tax, but now CC has it on sale for $2099 plust 8.25% tax for about a $300difference (plus a free camcorder, already have one, and interest free 18mo financing). The biggest difference is online I would have to wait up to 2 weeks, CC I can have it tomorrow, and if something is wrong, it goes back to the store, not shipped back. I am already waiting on a back orderded pre amplifier and a back orderded center channel until August and it is really bugging me. I guess I am just curious how many would plunk down the $300 difference to have it tomorrw, and the convinence of a store return in case of a failure?

Thanks!

 

[avaserfi]

That would be your choice. I got my TV from an online store with no problems and the person who brought it waited for me to hook it up before he left and I signed for it which was nice. CC would probably be easier just incase and because they still have a rather liberal return policy even after the changes. In the end it depends on how badly you want it .

 

[Adam]

Depending on where you saw that price (I'm guessing Amazon based on my search), you should be able to get CC to match the total price. You'd likely have to give up the free camcorder that you don't seem to want, so no big deal. If I were you, that's what I would try first. See if CC will match the price. If the salesperson won't, ask for a manager. Amazon is a very reputable company, and CC would be foolish to let you walk.

 

[Warpdrv]

I would agree with Adam... If you can get a B&M to work with you, that is the way to go... I bought my 50" Panasonic Plasma online, and had no troubles at all...

I wanted a Professional Series I couldn't get at a B&M.

 

[davidtwotrees]

I agree with these guys. See if CC is firm on the price. If you aren't a good negotiator, here is a good chance to practice. Bring a printout of the online offer. The camcorder is a great bargaining chip. Plus the B&M will come and install it, right? I think these guys have worked this problem. B&M.

 

[GlocksRock]

I usually get stuff online since it's usually a lot less money that way, but only if I'm buying from an authorized dealer or someone reputable. But there are other factors that can make or break the decision such as the return policy or warranty, and how quickly you may or may not get what you want.

 

[longodj]

When I got my TV I had been planning it a while and there was a sale Thanksgiving weekend. I was at my parents in NJ for the weekend so I had the whole weekend to stare at the $500+ discounts online. I had previously dealt with the local A/V store (The Stereo Shop, Rochester, NY), and wanted to give them the sale and get their support. When I went back (after all the sales were up) they told me the price and my jaw dropped. I explained the situation, a manager came by and remembered me and he gave me the full discount. I've built a great relationship with them and use them for anything I possibly can now even if I have to wait an extra month to save up the extra cash

 

[mpompey]

I usually go with authorized online as it is difficult to find the products I want in a B&M. THey have to stock what moves, and often that is based on the lowest common denominator.

If they match the price than B&M, if not, then I would just wait. $300 can buy you something else you need.

 

[Buckeye_Nut]

Well, I have pretty much decided I am going to get a new Samsung HLT5687s I had been planning on getting it online for $1968 with free shipping and no tax, but now CC has it on sale for $2099 plust 8.25% tax for about a $300difference (plus a free camcorder, already have one, and interest free 18mo financing). The biggest difference is online I would have to wait up to 2 weeks, CC I can have it tomorrow, and if something is wrong, it goes back to the store, not shipped back. I am already waiting on a back orderded pre amplifier and a back orderded center channel until August and it is really bugging me. I guess I am just curious how many would plunk down the $300 difference to have it tomorrw, and the convinence of a store return in case of a failure?

There's nothing wrong with buying from reputable online sellers providing they honor the manufacturer warranty, but nothing tops the service and convenience of a physical store. If I found the exact same TV I wanted at a B&M for a similar price as online, I'd buy from the B&M, but I wouldn't pay the full $300 difference. B&M stores don't like to match online stores for obvious overhead reasons(and they'll tell you all about it), but they will negotiate if it means making a sale.....or no sale. When they detail their overhead situation(and they will)......simply tell them it's not your problem
Providing your online seller honors the manufacturer warranty, that's all the leverage you need. I would NOT even take take the printout, because they'll use it against you.

WWID?? I'd go in and make it crystal clear that I intend to buy this TV today. That's the important first step because it makes a difference if it's crystal clear that you're a buyer, and that you're prepared to walk if they wont come to play. Secondly, I'd go in with a "walking" number set in stone in my head. (in the above case, Id be willing to pay an extra $100 for the convenience)

Then I'll tell them I buy the TV right this minute, but they need to knock off $300, or I walk and buy elsewhere. At worst.... I'll walk out with the TV in hand for $200 less and I'll be a happy camper knowing that I got a fair price. If you really want to press the issue, you should get the entire $300 you ask....but I was just saying what I would do. All I care is that I get a fair price.....not necessarily the lowest price possible short of beating them over a head with a stick...

PS...then sell the free camcorder on Ebay which equates to even more savings
Of course, each situation is evaluated on a case by case basis, but in the above situation... That's what I would do.

 

[NapaDRB]

I agree with Buckeye, I have had good look in the past on purchases (electronics, cars, etc.) letting them know right up front that I am ready to buy NOW. My standard line is "I'm not a tire kicker, I've already done my research, I have the money, if we can agree on a price you can make a sale in 5 minutes and move on to trying to sell somebody else something".