If you’re booking a private home for your getaway, asking for a better rate should be second nature, especially if you’re taking a slot that’s considered a “shoulder season” or is otherwise less desirable. But even big chain hotels will offer better deals to the persistent and penny-pinching.
The July issue of Consumer Reports magazine contains an extensive reader survey of rates, rankings and reviews of major hotel and motel brands. Among the more interesting findings: just over a quarter of survey respondents tried bargaining for a better rate, but among those who did, more than three-quarters were successful. Even if you’re already in town, give the hotel a call rather than just showing up: the article says over-the-phone haggling is more successful than negotiating at the front desk. Finally, if a hotel won’t budge on the room rate, see if you can get a perk like free parking or wi-fi thrown in instead.
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