shopping for the display model

[GREENBACK]

Does anyone here walk into a store to buy a major appliance such as a stove, fridge, dishwasher, computer or anything else that is displayed out of the box and ask specifically to buy the display model? I have done this for 3 major items in the past few months and have saved over $300 dollars by just inquiring if there was a display model that was the last item of it's kind in stock. It's pretty easy to haggle a deal over a scuff or ding but the condition of the diplay model is the same as if it came in a box. You don't even have to deal with getting rid of the stupid box it would otherwise come in. I think it's well worth it to ask.

[boosami]

I bought a 50" LCD TV that was a floor model. It was in perfect condition, and they gave me the standard manufacturer warranty from my date of purchase (which was doubled by my AmEx). I haggled them down to 20% off the retail price. There was no box, but it came with the original remote, manual, and cords. The floor model was the only one left of that specific model and they were unable (or unwilling?) to order a new one. I've had it for 2 years or so, with no problems at all.

I also bought a last-of-stock floor model video projector for a home theater proof-of-concept. I haggled them down to 10% off the price plus a free replacement bulb (which are not cheap, if you know projectors!). This had no warranty, but I had buyer protection through my AmEx yet again. I have been using it for at least a year with no problems, still running off the original bulb. When it dies I will be upgrading my theater with a (non-floor model) HD projector.

I would urge anyone buying a floor model to be sure you get a warranty or have buyer protection via your credit card before purchasing. If there was no warranty or I did not have protection through AmEx, I would not have bought floor models at all.

[disneysteve]

I've bought floor models of things more than once, though I never specifically went in asking for the floor model. Often, the store will indicate that the display item is for sale and the price is always reduced. I know we bought a TV and a DVD player that way.

[Broken Arrow]

I saw a set of nice Boston Acoustics speakers that were display models, might be an out-dated model, had superficial scratches on it, but sounded just great. The price was slashed by half!

I would have bought those... if I could somehow justify buying audio speakers to begin with....

[GREENBACK]

I know they sometimes tag these items but not always. I bought a refrigerator recently and it was only after talking to the salesmen that I learned that a couple of items were out of stock. I made note of a scuff and a small dent on one of floor models and got an additonal 20% knocked off the already 20% off sale price. I no longer assume that all items are in stock. I make it a point to ask

[disneysteve]

I no longer assume that all items are in stock. I make it a point to ask

I think that's a great savings tip.

On a similar note, we once bought a freezer. When it was delivered, they took it out of the box and it was scratched. Came from the factory that way. I called the store and told them I'd be willing to keep it if they made it worthwhile. They knocked 15% off the price. That was after it was bought, paid for and delivered, so it never hurts to ask.

[sjenkins]

Hmm moving into a new condo soon. Better keep this in mind.. thanx.