Its amazing how the hobby shops over here still charge outrageous prices instead of lowering them and passing the exchange rate savings on to us. It makes it a lot harder to stay in a hobby like this.
If the local Hobby Stores have not lowered the prices its likely because they purchased the items when the dollar was worth less. Its hard when you buy an item for 700.00 wholesale and then within three months the dollar gains 15-20 points. If thats the case they could likely purchase the same item for about 580.00 thus lowering the price to us, but keep in mind if its already in inventory and paid for the wholesalers dont give out rebates to the stores. The best thing I can suggest is to support your local shops. If you are a regular customer that spends his or her hard earned doallars there on a regular basis then perhaps your pricing will be better.
Discounts in independent shops are not just for the asking, you have to earn them. I have certain shops that I like to deal with and some times my items are discounted without asking, but I repsect the store when they do not discount. Remember asking for a discount on an item is the same as asking the owners to make less profit (the same as asking you to work for less per hour) because no matter what deal he cuts with you his wholsale price will not change. There may be a little room but don't be silly about it.
I tend to pay the asking price on my acc. and then only ask if there is room for a discount on my bigger ticket items like kits and motors. It helps when the dealer knows you will be back to buy spare parts and upgrades on a regular basis. Oh ya CASH IS KING !
Remember, just because the dealer gives you a great deal one time don't assume that will be the norm all the time. If your a better customer to the dealer they will help you when they can but there is a ballance and be respecfull when needed.
