Hold out for at least 35% off to ensure a good deal. Here's why. . .
* PODCAST: How to Save on Your Next Mattress
* PODCAST: Save Big on Appliances

"Some people would rather have a root canal than negotiate," says expert Allan Stark, "but it's easy." Here's how. . .

* PODCAST: How to Negotiate Down Your Bills

Pick the right destination, use the right online booking engines to build a value vacation.

* PODCAST: Best Twitter Feeds for Travel Deals

When a model year winds down, dealers throw inventory-clearance sales. We call out this year's steepest discounts. . .

We picked the best deal for there typical profiles -- moderate user, heavy user and families (texting teens!).

We suggest top deals in banking and credit, plus enticing closed-end funds, low-fee funds, European stocks and more.

Airfares are up, but bargains on the ground abound. We price out a variety of value vacations and events for you.

Strike a deal this summer on the iPhone, a big-screen TV and a laptop.

Design centers now can help you avoid the big mark-up on items you typically have to buy through interior decorators.

Many restaurants now make it easier to opt for smaller portions to trim your tab.