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What you need to know about deal sites

Our guide to some of the largest group buying sites around

Karen Robock,

Originally published on TodaysParent.com September 01, 2011

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If you haven’t signed up for any social group buying sites you’re missing out on the next generation in coupon clipping. These companies use the purchasing power of a large number of buyers to organize deep discounts on everything from house cleaning to coffee. We’ve got the inside scoop on the biggest coupon sites with the best deals.

There’s a reason why 100 million people worldwide have signed up to be emailed deals from Groupon every day: There are outstanding bargains to be had. But, as savvy online coupon buyers know, there are a few cardinal rules for success: Always read the fine print, beware of expiration dates and set a spending budget to avoid too many impulse purchases. Now that you know the basics, read on for the top sites worth subscribing to.

Groupon

How it works: Sign up to receive a new discount for your city every day, and share them with your friends on Twitter and Facebook.

Outstanding feature: New “Now Deals” are one-day-only sales meant to be used on the spot. Just put in the postal code of your current location and select from deals in that neighbourhood, like a coupon for a nearby ice cream shop or car wash.

Best family-friendly deal we’ve seen recently: A half-price Family Season Pass to the Bowmanville Zoo.

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