=+A4-3 The following is an excerpt from a conversation between Kate Fleming and Bob Dent. Kate is Determining cost of debating whether to buy a stereo system from Design Sound, a locally owned electronics store, purchases or gjg souncj Electronics, an online electronics company.

Kate: Bob, I don’t know what to do about buying my new stereo.

Bob: What’s the problem?

Kate: Well, I can buy it locally at Design Sound for $580.00. However, Big Sound Electronics has the same system listed for $599.99.

Bob: So what’s the big deal? Buy it from Design Sound.

Kate: It’s not quite that simple. Big Sound said something about not having to pay sales tax, since I was out-of-state.

Bob: Yes, that’s a good point. Ifyou buy it at Design Sound, they’ll charge you 8% sales tax.

Kate: But Big Sound Electronics charges $18.99 for shipping and handling. IfI have them send it next-day air, it’ll cost $24.99 for shipping and handling.

Bob: I guess it is a little confusing.

Kate: That’s not all. Design Sound will give an additional 1% discount ifI pay cash. Otherwise, they will let me use my VISA, or I can pay it offin three monthly installments.

Bob: Anything else???

Kate: Well... Big Sound says I have to charge it on my VISA. They don’t accept checks.

Bob: I am not surprised. Many online stores don’t accept checks.

Kate: 1 give up. What would you do?