For those of you who read this for the laughs alone and have never made a purchase anywhere that doesn't charge you sales tax, dickering is done between a buyer and seller when trying to agree on a price that satisfies both.

Dickering is taboo is most retail venues, with the only exception I know being in antique shops and car dealerships, where it has come to be expected. Other non-retail dickering venues include yard and garage sales, flea markets, and all of Tijuana.

One cannot dicker alone, if you ask for a dealers best price and they say "you're looking at it", he has NOT dickered. He has shut you down, and it is then your choice whether to buy or not to buy. If you don't want to pay his price say "No thanks" and walk away. He has every right not to dicker, so don't be mad. Dickering equates into a discount and if the seller chooses not to discount, your prerogative is not to buy.

Poor dickering etiquette on the buyers part starts with wanting to get the best price for an item with no concern as to how much money the seller has invested. Remember, it is not your business how much the seller paid for something. All that should concern you is how much he is asking and how little he will take without getting an attitude.

Here are some rules of dickering etiquette for both sides of the fence, buyer first. These rules apply when dealing with an unfamiliar dealer, loosen up if you know them.

1. It is totally appropriate to ask "what's your best price?" in a friendly manner. Most dealers will not be offended if you offer 75% to 80% of the listed price, but one should ask as opposed to offer. Example: "Would you take $4.00 for this item?" (marked $5.00) instead of saying "I'll give you $4.00". It's just nice to be asked instead of told. Part B. to this rule should probably be to remember that you just asked for "best price". You take your life into your own hands by countering with a lower offer at this point!

2. Unless you want to dodge instant daggers, NEVER offer to give a dealer half of what an item is marked. Lots of dealers will refuse to sell it to you after that at any price.

3. Don't point out a chip or crack on an "as is" piece, expecting to get it for nothing.

4. If you are buying for resale, never say "I can't make any money on that". Even if you can't, it's rude and the seller is not in business to make you money.

5. Remember, the more you buy, the sweeter the deal.

Now, for you dealers:

1. Dicker a little more on items you have not cleaned, are not real quality, have had forever, or got a great deal on.

2. Do not get offended at absurd offers, try to stay friendly at all costs. Just say NO!

3. Price your merchandise reasonably to begin with. Just because the Road Show said it was worth $500.00 doesn't mean you are destined to get it.

4. Treat your return customers just a little better than you treated them last time.

5. Remember, the more they buy, the sweeter the deal.

Visit Phyllis at Wonderland Antiques,
217 S. Main, Palestine, IL or online at
URL: www.wonderlandantiques.com - e-mail
Phone: 618-586-2334.

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