At last, you’re ready to buy that digital camera. At this point, many consumers think the hard part is over; but wouldn’t you like to REALLY FIND THE BEST OVERALL PRICE before buying it?

To do so involves two key things: determining the real TOTAL cost, and not being a victim of “Package Deal” gouging.

Determining the True Total Cost

Let’s say that the retail price on the digital camera of your dreams is $700. Begin by searching the internet for the best price (just “Google” the phrase “price-comparison site” to find hundreds). After 8 minutes, you determine the best price for your specific camera is between $570 – $590.

At this point, many consumers purchase it from the place selling it for the lowest price ($570, in this example). However, that could be a big mistake without knowing all the costs.

To determine why, you need to familiarize yourself with a few ON-LINE BUYING FACTS…

1. Tax may or may not be charged (buying from a merchant in your state will likely result in sales tax)
2. When determining price, ONLY CONSIDER the TOTAL cost of your purchase (digital camera + tax + shipping & handling)
3. Shipping prices vary significantly for the same item (due to geography and merchant policies)

Using this approach, you determine the REAL TOTAL COST of your digital camera ranges between $587 – $629, as opposed to the original $570 – $590. Do you run out and order from the $587 merchant? If you do, you will be using “retail store” mentality to buy on the internet.

If you want the best digital camera prices on the internet, consider these key issues:

1. Is the digital camera in stock? There is often a correlation between the lowest price and the product availability.

2. If ordering from the USA, make sure your camera comes with a USA warranty and is not considered “gray goods.” You don’t want to send it out of the country for service, do you?

3. What is the “Reputation” or customer service level of the on-line merchant? There are several websites you can “Google” to check the experience other buyers have had with different merchants.

4. The last “test” to use before purchasing is “your gut.” After speaking to the sales person, you might get a bad feeling about them. If you do, forget this merchant and contact the next seller on your list.

OK. You’ve done it! You’re about to congratulate yourself on finding the best digital camera price, from the best vendor, with great delivery, etc. There’s just one more potential land mine to watch out for… THE INSIDIOUS “PACKAGE DEAL.” Find out how to avoid this trap.