This one key search term is the best kept online shopping secret to scoring big discounts at 40, 50, even 80% off already marked down prices.
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Want to hear a little secret—one I haven’t really shared before? Something that might surprise you if you met me in person?
I’m a confirmed rollercoaster lover. There — I said it out loud.
Most days I’m careful and practical, but when it comes to thrill rides I jump right in. That same thrill-seeking feeling popped up recently when I discovered a shopping trick that feels a little daring: searching for “as is” items online.
If you’re drawn to clearance aisles in stores, this will absolutely thrill you. It’s not a gimmick — it’s a real way to find steep discounts. I first found this on Overstock, but other retailers sometimes have similar returned-or-open-box sections.
Here’s the simple trick: type “as is” (without quotes) into the site search box. You’ll get hundreds of listings marked down—often 40, 50, even 80% off the already-discounted price.
I came across items I would buy in a heartbeat if my budget allowed. A few examples I found:
An industrial metal-and-wood barstool for $67.50.
A Nautica comforter set for $51.09.
Metal counter stools for $12 each — yes, really.
And a beautiful pendant light that was over 50% off — still a splurge, but stunningly discounted.
“As is” items are typically returns: maybe the wrong color was ordered, the box was opened, or an item has a minor flaw like a scratch or fray. Retailers usually list the condition or the reason the item was marked “as is” in the product details, so you don’t have to buy completely blind. Keep in mind these sales are usually final, so there’s a bit of risk, but many flaws are easy to fix or hide.
I’ve written before that Overstock is my favorite place to find area rugs on a budget. During Olivia’s bedroom makeover I mentioned Overstock as a go-to source for discounted rugs, and the “as is” section sealed the deal for my living room.
I’d been wanting an 8×10 jute rug for ages. While browsing “as is,” I found the exact rug marked down from $239 to $128. The site noted the reason as “smell,” which made me nervous, but I took the chance.
When the rug arrived I admit I opened the package on the porch and gave it a deep sniff like a lunatic. To my delight, there was no odor at all — just a beautiful rug that made our living room feel finished. It was a reminder that sometimes stated flaws are minor or even non-existent.
A few practical tips when shopping “as is”:
- Read the product details carefully — the listing usually explains why the item is “as is.”
- Decide whether the flaw is fixable — fraying can be sewn, scratches can be touched up, and discoloration can sometimes be cleaned.
- Factor in the final-sale policy before you buy. The savings can be great, but returns are usually not accepted.
- Check these sections often — inventory changes quickly and the best finds move fast.
I’ll definitely keep checking the “as is” listings alongside Craigslist and thrift-store browsing. If a rug corner frays, I can sew it or tuck it under furniture; if a table has a scuff, a quick touch-up often fixes it. The reward is getting designer-style pieces at a fraction of the cost.
Now I want one of those cozy rugs everywhere — it really does feel like a little luxury underfoot.
Are you a thrill-seeker too? Have you hunted for “as is” or returned items on retail sites? If you have favorite sources for returned or open-box goods, I’d love to hear about them — though maybe not if you’re trying to protect my bank account!
You can check out more budget shopping tips from these posts too:
Where to Buy Affordable Industrial Farmhouse Decor
18 Tips for Better Craigslisting: How to Score on Furniture
12 Goodwill Shopping Secrets Revealed
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