The February issue of Ladies’ Home Journal has some great tips on how to be a better bargainer. According to the article, ten years ago just 33 percent of Americans haggled. Now that number is up to 71 percent according to America’s Research Group. A 2007 Consumer Reports survey discovered that 61 percent of those polled had tried to get a bargain by haggling and more than 90 percent of them succeeded. So it literally pays to haggle. Here are some tips for bargaining on your next big purchase.

Stay Quiet: When you ask for a better price and salesperson responds with a counter offer, don’t say anything at all. This tactic is a powerful one because often the other person will feel uncomfortable and suggest a better price before you’ve said anything at all.

Just Ask: You never know unless you try. Next time you make a doctor’s appointment, ask if you can get a discount– especially if you don’t have great insurance coverage.

Be Nice: Sometimes just being friendly can help you get a better deal. Or maybe the salesperson will be inclined to give you insider information about when markdowns will be taken.

Point out Damages: If you see a flaw in the product you want to buy, ask for a discount. You’re likely to save at least 10 percent just because of a minor ding, scratch or tear.

Comparison Shop: Go into a store armed with some online research. Google the product you plan to buy and if anyone is selling it for less, show the salesperson. They may match the price or better yet, beat it.

Pay Cash: If you offer to pay cash for a product you may get a better price. When you use a credit card the store pays a processing fee so you’re actually saving them money by paying cash.

Find the Person in Charge: Sometimes haggling is fruitless if you’re not dealing with the right person. Find out who has the authority to make deals.

Walk Away: Be willing to walk away and you’ll always keep the upper hand. This is key for becoming a master negotiator.