Most items can be purchased from a variety of stores which are in or near Berea. It is recommended that you compare prices between stores before you buy. Prices in stores are fixed and it is not common to bargain for a lower price. Generally stores are SELF-SERVICE type which means you select the items from shelves and take it to a clerk to pay for it. In some stores, such as grocery stores and discount stores, carts are provided for you to carry your purchases to the cashier. If you need assistance, a store clerk can help you. Before purchasing an item, especially if it is an expensive item, ask for the warranty information and the store’s return/exchange policies. Some stores have a full refund if you return the purchase item within a specific period without any damage and with proof-of-purchase. Be sure to keep your receipt. Your receipt will serve as proof-of-purchase. For example, let’s say you bought a bicycle and the store has a one month warranty. If the bike breaks, you may return it to the store, with your receipt, for repair or refund, depending on the store’s policy. Read the warranty before you make a major purchase.
The cashier will add a sales tax to your total bill. The taxes changes by county. If you want to write a check, do not write the check in advance. Write your check only after the cashier tells you the total cost of your purchases. You will need an ID to write a check.
Garage, yard or moving sales are occasions where people sell used furniture, household goods and clothing in the yards or driveways of their homes. They usually do that if they are moving and do not want to take these items, or if they want to get rid of unused items. Prices are usually lower than you would find in store. The prices are often negotiable. This is a good way to buy used furniture or some basic household goods. These events are generally advertised in the classified ads section of the local newspapers, or sometimes a sign is placed in front of the house.
SHOPLIFTING
Shoplifting or taking merchandise from the store without paying is a criminal offense. Conviction of shoplifting can result in a court hearing and a fine. Repeated conviction for shoplifting can result in deportation.
BUYING GROCERIES
Most residents buy groceries weekly from local grocery stores (supermarkets). In these supermarkets you can find frozen or fresh groceries, microwaveable foods, ready-made salad bars, breakfast food, etc. If you want to buy alcoholic beverages, you have to be 21 years or older. The cashier will ask for a valid ID so that she/he can check your age. Anyone under 21 years of age is prohibited by Ohio law from buying alcoholic beverages.
Local Department Stores
Local Grocery Stores
Local Pharmacies
Area Shopping Malls
Area Outlet Malls
Popular Online Retailers
PURCHASING A CAR
If riding the bus or your bike is not for you, then you may consider buying a car. Be aware that operating a car is a major responsibility. Before buying a car, compare the various makes and models available on the market. Determine how much you are willing to spend. Buying a car from a well-known dealership is a good way to buy a new or used car.
New car manufactures in the US include: Acura, Alfa Romeo, Aston Martin, Audi, Bentley, BMW, Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, Chrysler, Dodge, Ferrari, Ford, GMC, Honda, Hummer, Hyundai, Infiniti, Isuzu, Jaguar, Jeep, Kia, Lamborghini, Land Rover, Lexus, Lincoln, Lotus, Maserati, Maybach, Mazda, Mercedes-Benz, Mercury, Mini, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Oldsmobile, Porsche, Rolls-Royce, Saab, Scion, Smart, Subaru, Suzuki, Toyota, Volkswagen, Volvo.
If you want to buy a used car, have a used car inspected by a reliable mechanic before making a purchase. The mechanic may charge for this service. Bargaining for price on a new or used vehicle is allowed. To transfer the Certificate of Title on a used car, go to the CUYAHOGA COUNTY AUTO AND BOAT TITLE DEPARTMENT.
E-CHECK
In the state of Ohio your car must pass a environmental automobile test, also known as the Ohio E-Check. The nearest E-Check test center is at 1291 W. Bagley Rd.
AUTO INSURANCE
LIABILITY INSURANCE IS MANDATORY IN THE STATE OF OHIO. DO NOT DRIVE YOUR CAR WITHOUT HAVING INSURANCE COVERAGE!
The basic Auto Liability Coverage is required by law in the state of Ohio. The coverage pays claims against you if you damage someone else's car or property. Bodily Injury Liability Coverage pays for injury to others and your legal defense costs. There are more extensive coverage’s (for example, damage to your car, collision coverage), the cost of the insurance will be higher if it covers more, but ask before deciding. Compare rates between insurance companies. The insurance cost can be high for foreign students since they don’t have any driving history in the U.S. Insurance companies may require Ohio Driver's License.
DO NOT DRIVE YOUR CAR WITHOUT INSURANCE, WHEN YOU BUY THE CAR (AFTER SIGNING THE TITLE), YOU CAN CALL THE INSURANCE COMPANY AND INSURE YOUR CAR OVER THE TELEPHONE.
RENTAL CARS
If you need a rental car, you can get it from the airport or from the surrounding areas. The airport is usually most costly than from local agencies. If you do rent from a local agency, they will pick you up for free at your dorm. You may find agencies around Berea. Most rental agencies accept major credit cards, in fact, some require a major credit card. Different companies offer different car rates and discounts.
Most rental company’s require that you at least 25 years old. However, some will rent you a car at a higher rate. You can use your country's driver license. If you do not have insurance, you can purchase this through the company.
275 Eastland Rd.