The Wisconsin State Fair is well underway and many Wisconsinites will be WOWed by goods and services just waiting to be purchased.
It’s easy to get caught up in the fun and frantic fair atmosphere, but sometimes you can buy stuff you simply do not need – whether its an impulse or high-pressure buy.
The Wisconsin Better Business Bureau offers these tips to keep in mind before you make a purchase at the fair:
- Prior to making a purchase, get the company’s refund and exchange policy — in writing, if possible.
- Obtain the company’s physical location and telephone number, in case you need to return or exchange an item after the event.
- As with any purchase, it makes sense to comparison shop. Keep in mind, however, that the least expensive item may not always be the best value. If you are making a large purchase, don’t be afraid to leave the fairgrounds to do some research.
- Don’t be pressured to buy. After the demonstration or sales pitch, walk away from the sales person to give yourself some time to think about the purchase.
- Ask the vendor if a sale price will be honored after the fair — if so, you will not feel pressured to purchase the item “on the spot.”
- It’s important to note that the Federal Trade Commission’s “cooling-off rule,” which normally allows consumers three days to cancel a purchase, does not apply to the following purchases at fairs:
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- Purchases under $25
- Goods or services not primarily intended for personal, family, or household purposes
- Insurance, securities, or real estate
- Motor vehicles
- Arts and crafts
In addition, the BBB advises State Fair attendees to be careful of entering drawings for vacations or other prizes. Often times, to claim these “prizes”, you’ll need to pay an upfront fee or attend a high-pressure sales seminar.
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Mon, Aug 9, 2010
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