Of course, this tendency of Americans to haggle is annoying to English shopkeepers. Chris Dugan pointed out that some of these traits have changed in the last twenty years as English dealers pick up on American business practices. Frank also said he liked English housecalls better. The English seller is more apt to be straightforward about what they want for a price. They are more apt to accept your offer, or not, with less tendency to call in several dealers and try to get them to top each other's prices.
Reserve systems are different.
In England, one can put a reserve on most items, and many people do. The system offers more protection to the seller, he thought, and buyers are used to the practice. Frank pointed out that twenty years ago, some great bargains could be found in England. The G.I.'s returning to the states brought back lots of fine furniture to the states. Now it's harder to find bargains.