How to Haggle Like a Pro (Even Online!)

Let’s be real—paying full price is overrated. Whether you're at a flea market, negotiating on eBay, or messaging a seller on Facebook Marketplace, there’s always room to shave a little (or a lot) off the asking price. The art of haggling isn’t just about being cheap; it’s about knowing how to negotiate like a pro without being that person.

If the thought of haggling makes you nervous, don’t worry—I’ve got you covered. Here’s how to master the art of negotiation, even in the digital age.

1. Know the Market Value

Before you start throwing out offers, do some research. Check out similar listings, compare prices, and see what the going rate is. Knowledge is power, and if you know that an item is consistently selling for less than what’s being asked, you have leverage.

• For electronics, check recent sales on eBay.

• For cars or auto parts, use Kelley Blue Book or forums.

• For clothing and accessories, browse resell sites like Poshmark or Depop.

Once you have an idea of a fair price, you’re in a better position to make an offer that doesn’t sound like a total lowball.

2. Start Lower Than You’re Willing to Pay

This is Negotiation 101: Always start lower than your actual budget. If the seller is asking $50, start at $35 and work your way up. This gives you wiggle room to meet somewhere in the middle.

That being said—don’t be ridiculous. Offering $5 for something listed at $100 will likely get you ignored.

3. Be Polite & Friendly

Nobody wants to give a discount to someone rude or demanding. A little kindness goes a long way in haggling. Try something like:

“Hey there! I love this item, but I’m on a bit of a budget. Would you be open to $X?”

vs.

“$50? LOL. I’ll give you $10.” (Yeah, don’t do this.)

A friendly attitude can make the seller more willing to work with you.

4. Use the Magic Words: “Is That the Best You Can Do?”

If you’re unsure how to start the negotiation, this simple phrase is GOLD. It subtly pushes the seller to reconsider their price without sounding aggressive. Most of the time, they’ll either drop the price or give you a counteroffer.

Other variations include:

• “Would you take $X?”

• “Any chance you could do it for $X?”

• “I’m really interested—what’s the lowest you’d go?”

5. Bundle for Bigger Discounts

Buying multiple items? Use it to your advantage! Sellers are often more willing to discount when they can get rid of more inventory at once.

Example: “I’m interested in these three items. If I take all of them, could you do $X for the bundle?”

It’s a win-win: you get a discount, and the seller moves more products.

6. Leverage Payment Methods

Some sellers hate dealing with fees from platforms like PayPal or eBay. If you’re buying on Facebook Marketplace or a local site, offering cash or direct payment methods (Venmo, Zelle, etc.) can sometimes get you a better deal.

Example: “If I pay in cash and pick it up today, would you take $X?”

This works especially well for big-ticket items like furniture, appliances, and electronics.

7. Know When to Walk Away

Not every negotiation will end in your favor, and that’s okay. If the seller won’t budge and the price is too high, be ready to walk away. Sometimes, sellers come back with a better offer later when they realize you were serious.

If not, no worries—there’s always another deal around the corner!

8. Look for Small Imperfections (and Use Them as Leverage)

Minor flaws can be your best friend when haggling. If an item has a scratch, a missing button, or is missing the original packaging, you have a great reason to ask for a discount.

Example: “I noticed there’s a small scuff here—would you be willing to lower the price a bit?”

Most sellers would rather offer a discount than lose a sale over something minor.

9. Act Fast on Good Deals

If an item is priced well and you try to haggle too hard, someone else might swoop in and buy it first. If you already know the price is fair, don’t overdo it—just make a reasonable offer and close the deal.

10. Practice, Practice, Practice!

Haggling is a skill, and the more you do it, the better you’ll get. Whether you’re negotiating on eBay, at a garage sale, or on Facebook Marketplace, practice makes perfect. The worst that can happen? They say no—and you move on to the next deal.

Final Thoughts

Haggling doesn’t have to be awkward or intimidating. Approach it with confidence, politeness, and a little strategy, and you’ll be surprised how much you can save. Whether you’re negotiating for a used laptop, a vintage jacket, or a bundle of video games, use these tips to haggle like a pro—online or in person.

Now, go forth and save some cash! Your wallet will thank you. 😉