To deal or not to deal: When is a good deal worth it?

To deal or not to deal? Writer Phillip Brewer answered the question for himself in a recent blog post on Wisebread.com.

Deal seekers fall into one of two categories: Those who are prompted to make a purchase because they’ve found a great deal, or those who won’t be moved by a deal unless it was an item they’d intended to purchase anyway.

The latter is, in most cases, is the wiser. Stores, restaurants and other industries lure on-the-fence shoppers with discounts, sales and bargains that call our names. But if you’re really trying to save money or stick to a budget, you’d be smart not to be taken by the latest and greatest sale; that is, unless it is something you are already in the market for.

For instance, you never go out to eat except on Friday nights. However, you just saw a buy one, get one free dinner deal for a Monday night. If you hadn’t planned to go out on Monday, and you head to the restaurant, you’re going to be spending money you hadn’t budgeted for.

Here’s Brewer’s take: Who has the time (or money) for deals?

When is a good deal worth it to you? How susceptible are you to sales ads and marketing promotions?

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