The Anatomy of Sales, Clearance and Retail, Part 2: Storewide Sale Events

If the store is advertising some sort of sale event where you get so much of a percentage off of your total purchase, you've got a genuine, bonafide sale. But don't be fooled by this ploy, sales of this nature happen often (if you doubt it, think of every single holiday that may be celebrated in the home, but stores tend to publicize greatly: President's Day, Labor Day, Memorial Day, etc.). Unless that percentage caps 35% or so, I wouldn't go all crazy because in the end, you're doing what the retailers want you to do: spend more money than you would originally because you feel like you are getting a bargain.

If the store is advertising a sale but not using the angle of a total purchase, do not run to this store. Check out their weekly ad online and see if they have any items that you actually want and save yourself the trip if nothing catches your eye.

Always read fine print on flyers and coupons unless you are prepared to make a scene at the store in order to get your sale price.