Retailers draw holiday shoppers in with promises of big savings. But not every deal is a "real deal." Before you rush out to buy that marked down blender, make sure you know the math on these four classic markdown tactics and sales pushes.
Layered discounts can be deceiving: If you have a coupon for 25 percent off, and then add on a pair of $100 shoes that are 10 percent off, you're not getting 35 percent off, as you may think. Your total discount is actually only just 32.5 percent.
A percentage off is usually worth more: Many retailers give shoppers the choice between say, 20 percent off or $10 off. Go with the percentage deal — it doesn't sound as illustrious, but it's the better bargain.
The "sale" item may not actually be on sale: According to the FTC, when an item hasn’t sold at the regular price for a good amount of time, a so-called "reduced price" may be now considered its actual price. To avoid falling for a "faux sale," use a price tracker.
This may not be your last chance: Big sales typically lasts a limited time, urging you to act fast. But don't let yourself feel rush. Brad Wilson of Bradsdeals.com told TODAY.com that deep discounts — even those as supposedly epic as Black Friday's — often return as the season goes on.
Come back tomorrow to see the next holiday savings tip unlocked!