Behind the Scenes: How I Spot Real Deals (And Avoid Fake Discounts)

Here’s something I learned a long time ago: a big “50% off” badge doesn’t always mean you’re getting a good deal.

Sometimes the “original” price is an inflated number and the item was never actually sold at that figure. Other times, the exact same item is available for less somewhere else.

That’s why I only share deals I truly believe are worth our hard-earned money. Before any product makes it onto Sharing The Savings, it has to pass these five simple checks:

1. I Look Past the Percent-Off Badge

A discount is only as good as the price it’s measured against. I analyze the product’s price history over the past 3 months to compare its typical listing price against the current “sale” price. Advertised percentages can be deceiving—the numbers don’t lie.

2. I Cross-Check Competitors

I search for the exact same item—matching size, model, and count—at major retailers like Walmart, Target, and Best Buy. If it’s cheaper somewhere else, it’s not a true deal. (Note: If I find the same sale price at multiple stores, that could just mean it’s a retailer price-match, and the item is on sale through multiple retailers – if it passes my other price review steps, it’s a good buy from any of the retailers sharing the deal price)

3. I Verify Ratings & Recent Reviews

A low price on a poor-quality item isn’t a bargain. As a baseline, I look for items with at least 4 stars and 300+ reviews from real shoppers. I also scan the most recent reviews to catch any sudden changes in product quality or customer service from the seller.

4. I Search for True Value, Not Just a Markdown

Sometimes the smartest buy is the one with the lowest cost-per-use—like a bulk pack that beats individual pricing. If there’s a more clever way to save on the same item, I’ll point it out.

5. I Recheck Prices Before Posting (and Remove Expired Deals)

Prices shift quickly online. I recheck every deal immediately before publishing, and I monitor live posts so expired discounts are updated or removed as quickly as possible.

What I Won’t Do

I won’t post a deal just because something is marked down, and I won’t hype up a discount that isn’t genuine. When I say a deal is worth it, it’s because it passed the research.

A Quick Note on Links & Integrity

Some of the links on Sharing The Savings are affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This never influences which deals I select—if a product doesn’t pass my 5-step review, it doesn’t get posted.

Prices and availability can change at any time, so always confirm details before checking out.

We all deserve nice things…. Let’s go find them for less.

🛍️ Browse Today’s Verified Deals Here 😊

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