That’s why I go to shows! Here are a couple of tips I've learned:
- Only negotiate on an animal you would be willing to pay full price for.
- Cash talks waaaaay louder than your debit card.
- Don't insult the breeder with a redonkulous low ball starting price.
- Ask all your questions about the animal before you start negotiation.
- Don't assume the breeder will want you to advertise the price you just paid on BP.net or Fauna.
- If a person gives you a good deal on a great snake, send them all the business you can.
Good Luck!
EDIT: I forgot one...whatever you do, don't tell a vendor that you can get XYZ Morph cheaper on kingsnake.com. That's about the quickest way to PO a breeder.