The advent of technology has paved the way for the discovery of the internet. The internet has transformed the way we live. We can conduct research without going to the library. We can read the information on a specific topic with the click of a mouse. In addition, we can shop online. To reach more potential customers, many physical stores have introduced e-commerce.
Online shopping allows you to shop from the comfort of your own home. It is ideal if you dislike the idea of driving to the store to get what you need. With online shopping, all you have to do is select the product you like, fill out your shipping information, choose your payment method, and yadda, your order is on its way.
There may be times when you want to buy a product but do not have the necessary funds. Fortunately, there is a layaway option available to you. What exactly is layaway and how does it work? Read on to find out.
What is Layaway
A layaway option lets a customer to purchase an item and have the seller hold it for a period of time until he or she makes the final payment. Typically, when you buy an item, such as an appliance, a game console, or a smartphone, you must pay for it within 3 to 12 weeks. If you decide to cancel your layaway plan, some stores will give you a full refund, while others may return the money you paid less the cancellation fee. Store policies differ.
Choose the Item
When considering a layaway payment plan, the first step is to pick the item. Some stores impose a price limit on a specific item, or only certain items can be acquired using the layaway plan. Know which items you can buy to avoid wasting time selecting items that cannot be bought using a layaway payment option.
Deposit a Downpayment
Make a downpayment as soon as the item on layaway is approved. Some lay buy stores require customers to pay a percentage of the total price. Others allow customers to put down as much cash as they can. You can deposit it online or in person at their store.
Make Gradual Payments
Because each store’s policy may vary, you must determine whether your preferred store allows you to choose the payment plan. They may accept weekly or monthly payments. Some will decide on the schedule or length of time you have to pay off your remaining balance. The others will allow you to miss a payment for a short period of time, but it is still best to make your payments on time.
Collect your Item
After you have paid in full, you can pick it up at their physical store. There are stores that will charge you a small layaway fee for keeping your item in their storage facility during the payment term. Bring it home and enjoy. Without a doubt, you will be able to take pleasure in it because you are not in debt.
Layaway plans have advantages and disadvantages, but the advantages outweigh the disadvantages in terms of payment flexibility. It also has no adverse effect on your credit score.