Every year the New York State Fair’s Center of Progress building hosts dozens of vendors who pitch their products with the chutzpa, showmanship and humor.

It’s a unique sales method since fairgoers may not be ready to buy the gadgets, cleaners, polishes, housewares and toys that abound in the Center of Progress Building. COOKWARE 17So the sales pitch has also to be a show, entertaining and enticing the visitors to stop and see what’s going on instead of strolling by. They make some lofty promises that spark some onlookers to reach for their wallets and others to scurry toward the door.

Keep in mind that just as the sales people need to be highly skilled to make a living selling at fairs, the consumers have to use some skills of their own to make sure their getting their money’s worth. It’s trickier than buying in a local department store or specialty shop, since theses sale people will be long gone in a few days. Some products clearly display the name and address of the manufacturer on the packaging, but some don’t offer a hint. LADDER GUY 17That may be one reason you should pay with a credit card if possible, since your Visa or Mastercard bill will list the company name and city.

One big advantage is that you can buy infomercial products without paying shipping, while still getting a good deal.