Harrisburg, Pa. - There are lots of bargains at retailers this year. In fact, a Consumer Reports expert says Christmas 2008 may be the best buyer's market ever.

There are lots of people just getting started on their holiday shopping at Colonial Park Mall.

"I'm finding some good deals," said shopper Bob Meshinksi of Grantville. "A lot of the stuff is going quick, though. I could have done better if I'd started earlier, I think."

If you're buying clothing as gifts, you'd better get moving. That's according to the top consumer expert at Consumer Reports. They call him "Tightwad Tod."

"If you wait too long, you really might find yourself being shut out," said Tod Marks. Marks told us he's never seen so many great holiday deals.

"I have never, in 20 years of covering retail here at Consumer Reports, seen the breadth of deals and the wheeling and dealing that's been going on," said Marks.

And it's not just in local stores. Marks said the sluggish economy means Internet retailers are now even offering things like free express shipping.

"You can now get two- and three-day expedited shipping from a lot of e-tailers. That's incredible," said Tightwad Tod.

While he said deals on clothing are probably the best ever right now, when it comes to electronics, like widescreen TVs, you may do better after Christmas.

"I think a lot of consumers don't feel we've hit rock bottom, because traditionally the best time for sales of these items is around the Super Bowl. And everybody has the idea that prices are going to drop further," said Marks.

Tod Marks has more tips on his blog. We have a link under Newslinks Mentioned On-Air.

 

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