11 Home Depot Shopping Mistakes That Could Cost You

Scoring good deals at Home Depot is easier when you know a few tricks of the trade. But small slip-ups can add up fast, leaving shoppers missing out on savings without even realizing it. From not knowing about hidden discounts to overlooking simple policies that could put money back in your pocket, a little extra know-how can make a big difference. Here’s a look at common Home Depot shopping mistakes that could end up costing more than expected, and how to avoid them.

Overlooking the One-Year Plant Guarantee

Many shoppers are unaware that The Home Depot offers a one-year guarantee on perennials, trees, and shrubs. If these plants fail within a year of purchase, you can return them with your receipt for a refund or replacement. This policy provides peace of mind for gardeners and landscapers, ensuring that your investment in greenery is protected. However, this guarantee doesn’t apply to annuals or houseplants, which typically have a 90-day return window. Remember to keep your receipts to take advantage of this generous policy.

Neglecting to Submit for Rebates​

The Home Depot frequently offers rebates on various products, including appliances and building materials. Failing to submit these rebates means missing out on potential savings. The process is straightforward: visit the Home Depot Rebate Center online, find your eligible purchase, and submit the required information. Some rebates can be processed online, expediting the return. Always check for available rebates before and after your purchase to maximize your savings.

Ignoring Price Adjustments Within 30 Days​

If an item you purchased at The Home Depot goes on sale within 30 days, you can request a price adjustment to receive the difference. This policy applies to most general merchandise, including appliances and home décor. To take advantage, bring your receipt to the store or contact customer service online. This simple step can lead to significant savings, especially on big-ticket items. Always monitor prices after your purchase to ensure you’re getting the best deal.

Purchasing Tools Instead of Renting​

For tools that you use infrequently, renting from The Home Depot can be more cost-effective than buying. The store offers a wide range of rental equipment, from power tools to heavy machinery, available for hourly, daily, or weekly rental periods. This option saves you money and storage space, especially for large or expensive tools. Additionally, renting ensures you have access to well-maintained, professional-grade equipment for your projects.

Missing Out on Final Markdown Pricing

The Home Depot uses a pricing system where items ending in .06 indicate a clearance item that will be reduced further in six weeks, while prices ending in .03 signify the final markdown before the item is removed from inventory. Recognizing these pricing cues can help you decide when to buy. If you see a .03 ending, it’s the lowest price the item will be offered, so it’s the best time to purchase. Understanding this system can lead to significant savings on clearance items.

Failing to Utilize the Military Discount​

The Home Depot offers a 10% discount to active-duty military personnel, veterans, and their spouses on eligible purchases. To access this discount, you must enroll in the program and verify your military status online. Once verified, the discount can be applied to in-store and online purchases, up to a $400 annual maximum. This benefit is a meaningful way to save on home improvement projects for those who have served.

Overlooking Available Coupons​

Before making a purchase, it’s wise to search for available coupons and promo codes for The Home Depot. These discounts can be found on the store’s official website, through email sign-ups, or on reputable coupon sites. Coupons may offer percentage discounts, dollar-off deals, or free shipping, providing additional savings on your purchases. Regularly checking for these offers ensures you’re not missing out on potential discounts. ​

Not Engaging with Store Associates​

The Home Depot staff are knowledgeable and can provide valuable advice, product recommendations, and information on current promotions. Engaging with associates can help you find the right products for your project and discover any ongoing deals or discounts. Additionally, The Home Depot offers free workshops and resources to educate customers on various DIY projects. Taking advantage of these services can enhance your shopping experience and project outcomes.

Overlooking Discounted “Oops” Paint

The Home Depot sells returned or mis-tinted paint at a significant discount in what is often referred to as the “Oops” section. These paints are perfect for small projects or when color precision is less critical. By checking this section, you can find high-quality paint at a fraction of the regular price. It’s an excellent way to save money on painting projects.

Not Taking Advantage of Price Matching​

The Home Depot offers a price match policy where they will match the price of identical, in-stock items from competitors. For in-store purchases, they may even beat the competitor’s price by 10%. To utilize this policy, provide proof of the lower price at the time of purchase. This ensures you’re getting the best deal available without having to shop around extensively.

Ignoring Flash Sales and Special Deals​

The Home Depot frequently offers flash sales and special deals, such as the “Special Buy of the Day,” which features significant discounts on select items for a limited time. Regularly checking the store’s website or signing up for email alerts can keep you informed about these promotions. Taking advantage of these deals can lead to substantial savings on tools, appliances, and other home improvement essentials.

This article originally appeared on RetailShout.

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