HOW TO MAKE A WEAK ECONOMY WORK FOR YOU

A weak economy, even a pending recession, does not have to be all bad. With a bit of ingenuity, you can actually turn this lemon into lemonade, and here's how.

HAGGLING IS NOW ACCEPTABLE -- Whereas retailers wouldn't think of haggling over prices when the economy is robust, when the economy is sluggish, it's fair game. This means that if you have been eyeing a big purchase, such as a riding lawnmower or high-definition TV, now may be the time to get a good deal. Stores that are open to price negotiations include Best Buy, Circuit City, Home Depot and many others.

INTEREST RATES HAVE BEEN CUT -- Which means now may be a good time to refinance to a fixed-rate mortgage. Generally speaking, if you have good credit and a FICO score of at least 680, you may be able to benefit. You may also benefit from switching your credit cards over to one that is tied to short-term interest rates.

YOU CAN STILL TRAVEL -- Just do so within the United States, as the dollar is at very weak levels, making international travel very expensive. So if you have some extra cash, now is a good time to explore the 50 states.

GET A GREAT DEAL ON A HOUSE -- Home prices are at near record lows, and sellers are throwing in great incentives to move their properties. If you are looking to buy, it is definitely a buyer's market. That said, you will be facing stricter financing policies to get a mortgage, and if you own you will likely have a hard time selling your current home.

YOU CAN LOOK FOR A RECESSION PROOF JOB -- Certain businesses will thrive no matter what the economy is doing, so if you feel your job is currently in jeopardy, focus on finding work in one of these solid industries:

• Health care
• Education
• Energy
• Environmental
• Security
• International business