A lot of consumers shy away from used items simply because they are not new out of the box. However, in most cases, used items are tested, come with all their accessories and work just as well as a new product. When it comes to used items, retail stores will turn around and resell customer returns at a discounted price just to move them out of the store. This gives a store incentive to work with a customer, haggle the price and send you on your way with a used item that works just as well as a new one.

Depending on your budget, buying open boxed items should be an option. When a customer returns a product, if nothing is wrong with it, it can generally be resold to the public. It still comes with a full manufacturer warranty, from the date of your purchase, and it falls within the normal scope of a store's return policy. These open box items are tested and can be retested before you purchase just for your peace of mind.

Used electronics do come with risk. If stores do not properly test the unit, it could be sold as a defective item. If stores do not check that all accessories are included before selling, a customer could wind up home with a remote for a TV or a manual for a MP3 player. These types of horror stories are one of the many reasons customers stay away from open box items and choose to spend more on new items.

When it comes down to it, if you choose to go the used option, make sure you ask the right questions. First, make sure the unit was tested; if the salesman seems unsure, ask them to test it in front of you. If they cannot or will not, do not buy the unit. It may be perfectly fine, it may not, but why take the risk in the investment if they are not going to show you proof it works. Next, make sure it comes with all the accessories, if not, see what the sales associate can do to get you the parts you needed or a discount on purchasing what you need to make everything work.

In most scenarios, the store will work with you. Finally, see what they can do about the price. Most stores mark down open box units 10%, see if you can get more if you noticed a scratch her or a missing part there. Only by working with the store can buying used prove to be the best investment.