At yard sales and similar scenes ... it’s not uncommon for someone to pick up an item marked $0.50 and ask, “Will you take a quarter?”

It’s a game: find a good deal and bargain for a better price. It doesn’t matter if it’s a $100 item, or a $1 item. Players of the game love to play.

All well and good for the yard sales and flea markets of the world.

But when you’re paying a professional for services, you’re not at a yard sale.

When a skilled house painter offers a quote for $1,000 ... don't ask if she can do $900.

When an award-winning ad agency charges $5,000 for creative work ... don’t ask if they’ll accept $4,500.

And when a lauded copywriter bills $100 an hour... don’t ask if she’ll agree to $50.

Find your bargains at the flea market. But when you’re dealing with professionals, find your wallet … or politely find a better fit for your budget.