New dented and scratched appliances for sale cheap are just as good as new appliances without a few nicks and blemishes.

In most cases, the slight damage to their exterior happened while they were on display on the showroom floor, and the appliances are still covered by manufacturers warranties or the merchants' satisfaction guarantee. Finding these diamonds in the rough is easier than you might think if you are willing to do a little leg work to locate the right sources.

Major Appliance Dealers

Most dealerships that carry major appliances such as Lowes, Best Buy or Sears have regular sales to clear out their showroom merchandise that is dented or scratched. If you sign up for their email alerts or mailing list, you'll be the first to know about special sales and promotions on items like these. However, don't be afraid to ask for a discount on the spot if you find an appliance that you like that has a small ding or minor imperfection. The sales or store manager just might need to move one more unit that month to hit his or her sales production bonus and could be willing give you a significant price cut just to make the sale.

Local Appliance Dealers or Warehouse Stores

Smaller dealerships and buying clubs have the same problems with floor display models getting scratched and dented as do larger chain stores. Monitor your local newspapers for advertisements of scratch and dent sales but don't depend on that as a source of information. If you are in the market for an appliance - say a new stove or refrigerator - it's worth a few minutes of your time to go to the store and see for yourself if there are any floor models in less than perfect condition.

If the item you are considering is not already marked down, ask for a discount. Remember that it is the salesperson's job to say no to a discount because a discount usually means that he or she will make less commission. Be polite but persistent and keep working your way up the chain of command as you haggle.

Outlet Stores

Sears stores often run separate outlet locations where they sell deeply discounted merchandise that many have minor scrapes and dings. Look in the yellow pages of your local phone directory under the heading "Appliances" to locate the stores nearest to you.

According to Sid Kirschheimer, editor of Never Pay Retail, The Appliance Outlet is one of the best venues for finding savings of about 8 to 25% off retail on appliances with minor blemishes. Check online or in the phone book to see if they have a location in your area or call 617-740-1111 for more information. Kirschheimer also recommends Sears outlet stores as an excellent source for finding cheap but dependable discounted appliances with minor imperfections.

Finding new dented and scratched appliances for sale cheap is a thrill for any frugal shopper. By doing a little research and making a few phone calls, sending some emails, or visiting a few stores, you could be the proud owner of a brand new appliance that you purchased for a fraction of the manufacturer's suggested retail price. Now that's a deal worth working for!

Resources:

Kirschheimer, Sid (editor), Never Pay Retail, Rodale Press, Inc., (1996)

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