From cars to internet bills, a little haggling can save you big money.

Negotiating doesn’t come naturally to most people. Asking for a lower price can feel awkward, and the fear of rejection often keeps us from speaking up. But staying silent can cost you hundreds—or even thousands—of dollars over time.

“Businesses that aren’t strictly online are more open to bargaining than they used to be,” says Linda Babcock, former economics professor at Carnegie Mellon University. In other words: it never hurts to ask.

Here are nine products and services where negotiation can really pay off.

1. New Cars

The average new car sold for nearly $49,000 in June, according to Kelley Blue Book. But sticker prices aren’t set in stone. Dealerships usually leave wiggle room for negotiation.

💡 Tip: Don’t just focus on the sale price. Ask about extras like free tire rotations, a bike rack, or all-weather floor mats. Dealers often have flexibility with add-ons.

2. Houses

With homes sitting longer on the market, sellers may be more open to lower offers. A property that’s been listed for months is a prime target for negotiation.

💡 Tip: Research comparable homes first. A fair offer gets attention—an unrealistically low one could backfire.

3. Mortgage Rates & Fees

Never accept the first mortgage offer. Get at least three quotes and use them to negotiate lower rates and fees. Borrowers who shop around save, on average, more than $80,000 over a 30-year mortgage, according to LendingTree.

💡 Tip: Don’t expect massive discounts—competition keeps rates fairly tight—but even small differences can mean big long-term savings.

4. Furniture

Retailers want to move old stock to make room for new arrivals. If a sofa or dining table has been sitting in a showroom, chances are the salesperson can cut you a deal.

💡 Tip: After agreeing on the price, ask for free or discounted delivery.

5. Mattresses

Mattress pricing is notoriously flexible. In a Consumer Reports survey, 60% of shoppers who haggled saved money—typically about $250. Discounts are common both in-store and online.

💡 Tip: Always check return and trial policies. Some retailers offer risk-free trials lasting up to a year.

6. Mobile Phone & Internet Bills

Telecom companies fight hard to keep customers. If you mention switching providers, you’ll often get a discount or special deal.

💡 Tip: Review your bill before calling—look for extras you don’t use, like unlimited data, and cut them out to save more.

7. Home Improvements & Repairs

Contractors often adjust prices when business is slow. Getting multiple estimates gives you leverage to negotiate.

💡 Tip: Offer repeat business or referrals. Contractors may lower costs if they see a long-term relationship.

8. Car Insurance

Insurance is highly competitive. Even if you’re satisfied with your current carrier, it pays to compare quotes every few years.

💡 Tip: Present lower quotes from competitors to your agent. Many companies will match—or even beat—them to keep you.

9. Auto Repairs

Independent repair shops often have more flexibility on pricing than dealerships or national chains. They may provide quality work at a lower cost if you negotiate.

💡 Tip: Check your car’s warranty first. Some repairs must be done at authorized dealerships to avoid voiding coverage.

If You’re New to Negotiating…

Start small. Try bargaining at a flea market or garage sale, where haggling is expected. Building confidence on small purchases makes it easier to negotiate bigger ones later.

“Negotiation is a skill,” Babcock says. “The more you practice, the better you’ll get.”