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http://www.tvpredictions.com/10tips111912.htm

Black Friday: 10 Tips to Landing a Great Deal
By Swanni

Washington, D.C. (November 19, 2012) — Kmart is selling a ProScan 32-inch LCD HDTV for $97. Amazon is selling a Vizio 60-inch Smart TV for $688. Best Buy is selling a Smart TV Blu-ray player for $39.

These are just some of the incredible deals that retailers will offer on High-Definition TVs and related high-def products on Black Friday, the day after Thanksgiving (Nov. 23).

However, this could be the most competitive Black Friday ever — thanks to the economy and smaller inventories at retail stores. It’s quite possible that some of the discount prices will be available for one day only — and may include restrictions on time and supply.

And with the economy in question, surveys indicate that bargain hunters will likely turn out in even greater numbers on the big day.

So, how can you make sure that you don’t get shut out?

Based on information from Consumer World and other sources, TVPredictions.com has compiled a list of 10 rules for landing that great deal on Black Friday, the traditional start of the holiday shopping season.

And here they are:

1. Read the Ads — In Print & Online
Consumer World suggests that you carefully review your local newspapers on Thanksgiving Day. Usually, they will be stuffed with Black Friday ads and coupons. Bring them with you on the big day. Plus, many retailers are offering special Black Friday deals at their web sites. Don’t forget to check them out 24-48 hours prior to the big day. (Also see Rule #6)

2. Evaluate the Deals
Don’t assume every “deal” is a deal. Compare the “Black Friday” special price with the HDTV’s normal price before buying. You can do that at various e-commerce web sites such as Amazon.com and BestBuy.com. You may even find a lower price online.

3. Buy a Good Product
A low price doesn’t guarantee a high-quality television. Do some research and read product reviews at sites such as CNET.com. If you’re not familiar with the product’s brand name, check out its customer service record with organizations such as the Better Business Bureau.

4. Look For More Discounts
Some stores issue coupons or rebates on high-def sets and other products such as High-Definition Blu-ray players. Find out if the discounts apply to the Black Friday specials.

5. Come Early
Some stores will offer special prices if you come in at a specific time, such as between 5 a.m. and 11 a.m. Check out those Thanksgiving ads for “time restricted” specials. Also, this year, some stores are holding pre-Black Friday sales on Thanksgiving.

6. Beat the Early Birds
Some Black Friday deals at retail may be available at the store’s web site. Check out the site in the wee hours of Friday morning and you might save yourself a trip to the store.

7. Check the Return Policy
Before buying, find out the store’s return policy. Consumer World says some stores discourage returns by imposing restocking fees or placing frequent “returners” on blacklists.

8. Get a Gift Receipt
You can make a return easier for gift recipients by asking the store to place a receipt in a gift box. Without it, the store may not accept it.

9. Use the Right Credit Card
Some credit cards offer free benefits such as a return protection guarantee or purchase points that can be redeemed for other products. When you’re buying a big-ticket item like a HDTV, that could pay off.

10. Save More With Price Guarantees
After buying the high-def set, keep your eye on the TV’s price at other stores in the next month. Some stores will give you the difference between your price and a competitor’s price during the holiday season.