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PRE- PURCHASE CONSUMER CHECKLIST
A knowledgeable consumer is not only the best defense from fraud and deception but the best way to save money and satisfaction with the products you buy and services you use. .
1. Clearly identify your objectives.
If you don’t know exactly what you wish to accomplish it makes it harder to satisfy yourself.
2. Use common sense.
If it doesn’t feel right – it isn’t. If it sounds too good to be true – it probably is.
3. Take your time.
Never allow yourself to be pressured into making a purchase or investment.
4. Seek referrals.
Connect with people you trust. Get referrals and by products and services from people you know or from people that are referred to you by people you know and trust.
5. Get recommendations.
Contact people you know who own the product have used the service or made similar investments. Find out if the product, service or investment is doing what they thought it would do. Are they satisfied? Read online reviews.
6. Seek assistance.
Never be afraid to seek advice. There are numerous avenues to find help making important decisions. Money spent seeking advice before you purchase or invest may prove to be the best money you ever spend. Knowledge is power, acquire it.
7. Compare pricing.
Never purchase products or services without some comparative price checking.
8. Check for coupons and deals.
The Internet has changed the way businesses operate. Often special deals can be found online.
9. Check Consumer tips and tricks.
The US government has thousands of web pages dedicated to helping consumers avoid scams and make informed decisions.
10. Verify business information.
Verifying information will help you establish how long a business has been in existence and form a basis from which to conduct additional research.
11. Verify licensing.
Check required licenses of any person or business selling products or services.
12. Check for known complaints.
Official consumer complaints filed against a person or business are sometimes hard to find. Start with the Better Business Bureau, then check online using a general search. Just like positive online reviews, online complaints about a person or business posted by individuals should never be the only resource used to make purchasing or investment decisions
13. Contact Personal References.
Nothing beats experience. If you don’t have any experience dealing with the person or business contact their references. Ask questions until you are satisfied. Some samples: How long have you know the subject? What is your relationship? Have you purchased or used the product or service being provided by the person or business you are giving a reference for?
14. Hire a professional.
If you are making a large purchase or investment with someone you personally don’t know very well. Hire a professional to do a background check and assist you with your due diligence. Find out how...
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