Top 14+ Tips Home Depot Employees Want You To Know Before You Buy Anything

2. Floor models are often discounted

If you're in the market for a new grill or outdoor furniture and aren't too picky about what you end up with, this tip is for you.

Often, you can get a discount if you're willing to buy the floor model — essentially, a product that sits on display outside of its packaging.

In many cases, the manager will shave off a percentage of the list price. So, it's always worth asking if you can get a deal.

4. Home Depot matches competitor prices on some items

Home Depot wants to ensure it gets your business instead of seeing you turn to competitors such as Lowe's or Ace Hardware.

So, if you find a lower price on an item at one of these retailers, Home Depot often will match the price. This even includes the cost of shipping for online purchases.

This doesn't apply to all items, such as custom-made products or items on clearance. So, be sure to read the fine print beforehand.

5. Home Depot might match prices in other ZIP codes

Prices at Home Depot stores may vary depending on their location. However, some Home Depot aficionados say that if you take a screenshot or make a printout of a lower price in another ZIP code, your local outlet might match the price.

That's why it's smart to put in a few different ZIP codes when browsing Home Depot's website. An item may be cheaper than at your home location.

7. Ask about 'oops' paint

If you're not particular about what paint color you need for a project, you can score some on the cheap by asking for "oops" paint.

This is how Home Depot sells off paint that was mixed incorrectly for a custom order, whether the color was off or it has the wrong finish.

Make sure you check on that finish, by the way. You want to make sure you can use the paint for a specific area of your home.

9. Check end caps for clearance items

Retailers know how to get customers to spend more. Target is so good at making you buy things you didn't know you needed, for example, that folks coined the phrase "the Target effect."

As for Home Depot, it's known for putting clearance items in end caps.

So, check the displays at the end of aisles the next time you are at Home Depot and see if you can score a great deal — hopefully, on something you actually need.

10. Decode Home Depot price tags

Like many retailers, Home Depot has a special system for marking down items that go on sale. Learning how to decode these price tags can clue you in on when the price of something has reached rock bottom.

For example, Home Depot fans say that if a price ends in three on a clearance price tag, that's when it's time to haul that item to the register, as it's likely 70% off by that time.

12. Subscribe to Home Depot products online

You know how Amazon has an option to subscribe to a product you use regularly and have it delivered periodically at a discount price? It turns out you can do the same at Home Depot.

Whether you regularly shop for laundry detergent, garbage bags, air filters, or pool supplies, sign up online, and you will get a percentage off each order.

13. Create a Pro Xtra account

If you're a frequent Home Depot shopper, you might benefit by signing up for the Pro Xtra program.

You don't need to pay anything for this perk; just register with your name, address, and contact info.

Once you do, you're entitled to discounts, exclusive offers, and other rewards that can save you money.

14. Use the Volume Pricing Program on bulk orders

If you're working on a large project — say you need a bunch of wood, a bunch of buckets, and so on — write up all you'll need and bring it to the Pro Desk.

There, an associate will draw up a quote that'll often get you a lower price than if you grabbed it all on your own.

You'll need a Pro Xtra account for this service, but again, that's free.