Big Ticket Items On Sale Now
By Lori Draz

Whether you liked the program or not, or qualified for it or not, “Cash for Clunkers” proved that people are ready to buy.  And it showed that all consumers need is a little incentive.

Regardless of the economy, people are still spending on the good things in life, even if a bit more cautiously. So when is the best time to buy big tickets items?  We say right NOW, and it’s related to the basic economic rule of supply and demand.   Slower sales in most major luxury categories, coupled with increased inventory have manufacturers and stores offering deeper discounts, generous rebates and in house financing.   This equates to really good things for consumers.

Deals on Wheels and Water Vehicles

So, if you’ve got some cash, or some credit, you’re in a position to get deals that haven’t been seen in years.  Luxury dealers of vehicles, including boats, RV’s and motorcycles are ready to take your offers, so get out to the showrooms and flash your cash.  George Teutsch, General Manager of Atlantic Cape RV in Galloway, NJ says credit companies and banks are tighter than ever.  He also says in the past, many buyers waited for trade shows to buy, but that may not be the best plan this year.  “Many dealers of bigger ticket recreational vehicles, like RV’s, boats and motorcycles are not attending shows.  It’s just too much money and manpower to go.  Buyers can take advantage of those saved dollars. Just walk into the dealership and you’ll get a great deal “.

Kevin McGettigan, Certified Professional Yacht Broker at Sandy Hook Yacht Sales Dealers, who carry Sabre, Back Cove, Tiara, Maritimo and Edgewater says everyone in the marine industries is looking to provide the best value for your quality time. “Not only is this a terrific time to buy, we’re seeing a great caliber of buyer who recognize the opportunity. Dealers have existing new inventory that they are eager to sell to replace it with new 2010 model year stock.  There are many NEW 2007, 2008 and 2009 boats with full factory warranties available at rock bottom prices and with additional incentives from manufacturers, plus additional rebates and/or extended warranties from engine and electronics manufacturers, all bundled into one low price.  There are also great incentives on used boats and those taken in as trades. Sellers are more willing than ever to make deals, and don’t forget to check into very nice opportunities to buy re-possessed boats owned by banks.”  You can further negotiate your price by asking for extended warranties or concierge services on new boats including detailing and periodic engine check ups too.  All will make buying a boat much more hassle free.  Full service marinas are also putting together full service packages to make owning less labor intensive.

Savings For The Home

Inside the home, there are ways to save on flooring, appliances and electronics.  Choose a dealer that has some clout.  Longevity, numbers of brands carried and reputation mean something.   Frank DiFiglia, owner of Just Carpet and Flooring in Howell, is offering his own in store financing on just about every kind of flooring.  You may even qualify for 0% financing for as long as 36 months. “People need a little help right now, and we’d rather see you enjoy your home, so we’re doing what we can to make buying easier.” ABL Appliance in Manalapan advises customers that many manufacturers offer their own rebates and incentives, so be sure to shop with an authorized dealer of the brand you’re interested in because they can get you the best factory direct deals.  Also keep your eyes open for Energy Star products, because they are offering additional rebates, which can often be combined with other rebates.  Though not a rule, traditionally, the highest prices on appliances occur in the beginning of the year, making the next few months good an even better time to buy.

Gene Young, from Mighty Young’s Appliance agrees that THIS is the right time to buy. “Factory rebates and manufacturer incentives are great.  We also remove all appliances when we deliver new ones and give the owners a small cash reward for upgrading their appliances.  We’ve been in business since 1946, so I’ve seen many cycles in business and if you have been waiting, wait no more.”

If you are upgrading your home to make it greener or more energy efficient, look into the federal tax credit that could get you 30%, or up to a $1,500 tax credit for qualified energy efficient home improvements.  To qualify, the improvements must be made on the taxpayer’s primary residence in the United States; must be used for remodeling or replacement (new construction does not qualify for the new tax credit); Product must be purchased and placed in service during 2009 or 2010.  Rebate applies to product only.  Windows and doors need a U-Factor equal to or less than 0.30 and a Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) equal to or less than 0.30, rebates also apply to selected woodstoves as well.

Another negotiating point related to appliances and electronics are extras.  Ask for free delivery or extended warranty plans. Free installation is harder to get as an installer must get paid.  Remember too to think about the value that the item will have in your life versus the interest the money will earn you in a bank.  If football on the big flat screen seems more appealing than 1% interest, then go for it, as you may not see offers as generous as the ones available now for a while.

Interior Design

Dee Morrissey of Morrissey and Thompson-Ryan Interior Design commented that interior design customers are adopting a wait and see attitude and spending more cautiously.  They want to make their home aesthetically pleasing and functional, but to save money, some become do it yourselfers, spending countless hours scouring the internet or visiting stores looking for bargains. Dee has often been told by new clients, that the results were typically disappointing and that their home doesn’t “look like the magazines”.

Dee and her partner, Jill Ryan believe now, more than ever, is the time to hire a professional interior designer. Manufacturers are offering exciting deals and incentives and contractors and skilled professionals are available. Most importantly, your home is typically one of your biggest financial and emotional investments. It should bring you joy that will last over time, and spending wisely will help you gain the desired look and functionality for your home.

The client sets the budget guidelines and the design professional stays within them, while creating the proper time line from start to finish.  You’ll choose high quality furniture, fabrics, lighting, wall treatments and flooring that work well together and best define the space. Then come the finishing touches, like window treatments, artwork, accessories, etc. that will aesthetically finish the room and reflect who you are and how you live.  Dee believes in the “closed door policy” meaning completely finishing a room before moving on to the next project.  This ensures her clients will have a beautiful and functional room to enjoy for many years. MTR Interiors believes that a room should never look dated.  A classic, elegant room will always be interesting and inviting for many years to come.

Finally, your home should reflect your needs and fit your personality and lifestyle.  A professional interior designer can bring your vision to fruition in ways you may never have thought possible.  Most of all, when making that decision to work with a designer, interview them carefully to ensure you are both the right fit as a team to create interiors that will truly make your house a home.

For a glimpse at some of Morrissey and Thompson-Ryan Interior Design projects, check out their website at www.mtrinteriors.com