Groups buying sites have sprouted like mushrooms over the last year. The list of sites I compiled months ago has not been updated to include the latest ones, like Brieo – which just launched last month. Not all sites are still standing, though, since some have also bowed out of the group deals battle like eTreet.com – which I think didn’t even reach launch day.
Group buying is a legit and easy way to get incredible discounts. You can get deals from food establishments, electronic, travel packages, beauty treatment, and everything in between. However, some people may still find it too good to be true. For those who are still reluctant to buy their first coupon online, here are some tips to help appease your fears.
1. Check coupon validity – When buying a coupon, make sure you have plenty of chances to use it. Discount coupons are usually sold a week before its validity date, so it’s not a good idea to scout for coupons for tonight’s dinner. Some coupons are valid for a year, so that’s a great thing, especially if you’re giving it as a gift. Other coupons may only be valid for a couple of months, which may not be good if 10,000 others have bought the same deal.
If the establishment offering the deal has multiple branches, make sure it is valid for the branch nearest or most convenient to you. Some deals may only be offered at a particular branch, such as the newly opened ones. Group buying sites never run out of deals, so just wait for the best offer that’s right for you.
2. Read the fine print – All deals contain a fine print where the whole thing is explained in detail. Some deals may only look enticing in title, but the fine print reveals exactly what the coupon entails. A travel package to Boracay, for example, may include hotel accommodation together with an island tour but not the airfare.
It’s also worth mentioning that certain beauty/derma procedure deals like underarm whitening may require post-procedure medication, which is not included in the coupon. Similarly, a dental prophylaxis deal may only cover standard cleaning, so there may be an additional charge for severe cases (gingivitis, tobacco stains, etc). You may need to inquire about the price tag for any additional fees the procedure may incur, just so you know what to expect.
The conditions of the deal also includes the contact details of the deal server. This is important because many deals are served by appointment, so you’ll have to call in advance to reserve your slot. In some cases, mostly with derma/beauty deals, multiple coupons are recommended. For example, an RF therapy will only be visibly effective after about 4-6 sessions.
3. Check the number of deals sold. Simply put, the more people who bought the deal, the more hectic the establishment is going to be. This is great for any new business, but the drawback is if you don’t set an appointment early, you may be left with next year’s slots. Of course, the deal server must accommodate all coupon holders as part of their terms. If the coupon is accepted in multiple branches, then there should be nothing to worry about because it will divide the customers.
4. Compare deals. There are so many deals being unveiled on a daily basis, so there’s no harm in looking around to compare deals from different group buying sites. An easy way to compare deals without subscribing to each and every deal site, is through a pooled group deals site such as dealies.ph.
It may also be easier to compare deals by subscribing to a group deals facebook fanpage. I have yet to see one, but surely, there’s one out there for the Pinoy market.
5. Use the referral system. Most group buying sites have a rewards program for their loyal buyers. This may be in the form of referral credits or rebates in Pesos. Whatever it is, be sure to check how much points you have, or how to increase them. Either way, don’t forget to use them when you have enough!
There really is nothing to lose when buying coupons online, so what are you waiting for?
