Alright, if you spend money on techie things like me, you’re going to be pissed and excited about the flexibility and discount authority at major retailers.

In mid-December, I started shopping for a new home computer. As a recent convert to Mac, it was an easy decision on make and model. Like all Apple products, its impossible to find them on sale; just try. Apple does provide an educator and/or student discount, but its only $50. So, I found myself chatting it up with a supervisor at Best Buy about Mac computers, the holiday shopping season, life, work, and more.

I had mentioned the desire to by the Apple® – iMac® 3.06GHz with 21.5″ Display, but was struggling to overcome the hefty price tag. Apparently, our conversation triggered an emotion and he grabbed an iMac and instructed me to follow him.

Next thing I knew, he was ringing me up for a new computer… Dumbstruck, I watched in amazement how this price-fixed computer kept dropping in cost. Several minutes later, I walked out of Best Buy smiling and here are the results/proof:

• $200 discount on the iMac (this is the latest model in an unopened box)
• $30 discount on Best Buy’s 2-yr Black Tie Replacement Service
• …and I got credit on my Reward Zone earning $20 bucks in gift certificates
• Summary: I left with a new computer with 2yr complete-replacement warranty for $40 less than the original cost…

I tell you this as a reminder that almost everything (even price-fixed Apple products) can be negotiated… you just have to be patient, find the right person, connect and be ready to buy!

P.S.: On a separate note, if you have an iPhone, you should pay the money to download Red Laser ($1.99) from the app store. Next time you’re in Best Buy, use this app to scan the UPC on any product. If you can find it cheaper online, Best Buy will match the price of an major competitor. And, in my experience, they even match online retailers providing you find the right supervisors. This applies to Sears, Fry’s, Home Depot, Lowes, and many other retailers.