Many people are still wary of buying large dollar items over the internet. I can only suggest that they get over it already. There's a lot of money being left on the table if you ignore the net based options. There are a number of electronics retailers whose internet storefronts will allow you to keep a lot more dollars in your pocket while getting the gear that you want.
To begin, when you've determined what model you think you want, go examine it in person at Best Buy or whoever is still standing. There is no substitute for personal examination.
Then do a Google search, not for the item on sale, but for the internet forum or discussion group that is seeking, using or sounding off about the item that you want. It is here, in the group, that you'll find incredible amounts of information. Be forewarned that a substantial amount of the information is going to be backyard, over the fence gossip, from people who have nothing substantial to add to the discussion but apparently feel a need to express themselves. Don't be dismayed, as there always seems to be a nugget or two about performance from people who've already actually bought the item that you want and want to share their opinions. There are likely to be angry people expressing their distaste for the item and touting what they perceive to be a superior alternative. After you've waded through a couple of these sessions and confirmed what you're going to buy, you begin data mining for the big nugget. These discussion groups are constantly surfing for the best deal, and they offer up links to the sites that are offering items at a hot price.
I have used this method a few times, and the savings have been substantial. Beside the price difference, you'll want to find a free shipping offer (that can be worth a hundred or two) and free accessories (that can be worth a hundred or two, also).
Be alert to where your chosen deal originates. Buy from a retailer who doesn't have a store in your home state (I've generally found good fortune in New York) and avoid the sales tax. That alone is worth 8%-10% off your purchase.
Read the product description carefully! Some "too good to be true" deals are for refurbished items, and I've not been prepared to make that particular leap of faith. Yet.
I say "yet" because there's a different fiscal justification to which I've finally had to acclimate. Plan on five years or less until the item you so covet today becomes a recycled piece of crap. Five years is a little quick, but it will help you avoid depression if that's as far as it goes. The laptop on which I compose this stuff has been running mostly well for eight years or so, so that's a bonus item (knock wood).
Does this really work? The new TV arrived today. It was delivered to my driveway, free TV stand, free shipping, no sales tax, from a retailer in the NYC area. All in, about 30% under the best price we could find from a local store.
It's your money.
