"Sales" do not always offer good bargains

The end-of-year holiday shopping bonanza is soon to arrive. Shops, department stores and traditional marketplaces have become more colorful than usual.

Signs of big discounts, some of up to 70 percent, have been placed at most department stores. Coupon savings given to frequent customers have also become even more attractive at this time of year.

The "buy three get one free" selling strategy has also been made available in many shops.

This year, Idul Fitri, Christmas and New Year will take place within the last two weeks of December. No wonder retailers will try to make anything possible to take advantage of the expected shopping spree.

For Muslims, it has almost become a ritual to buy new stuff for the whole family before celebrating Idul Fitri, which marks the end of the fasting month. They will also buy clothes for their relatives or needy people as part of the holiday festivities.

Non Muslims will not feel left out though, as they will be busy buying presents and provisions for Christmas and New Year.

Yes, it is a good time for shopping. But stay cool and don't panic. Although the discount offers are tempting and alluring, be cautious, as a sale price is not always the best price.

Some merchants may offer the sale price on the item you want for a limited time; other merchants may discount the item you want for an unlimited period. To make it safe, it is better to shop around before making your decision. The Chinese proverb, "visit three shops before making a purchase," might be a good reminder so as not to make a mistake.

Make sure the big discount offered by retailers is not a commercial gimmick. Some merchants will match or even beat their competitors' prices, so it is therefore important to read the retailer's pricing policy carefully. It may not apply to all items.

Another important consideration before you go on a buying spree is that you have to plan ahead with your purchase. Set a realistic budget and stick to it. Also, make a list of things you want to buy. This will help you avoid buying on impulse clothes or gifts that might be inappropriate or too expensive.

Before making a purchase, it is also important for you to ask the merchant about its refund and exchange policy. A store is not obliged to accept items for refund or exchange unless the item is defective or had been misrepresented.(Hendarsyah Tarmizi)