Are you ready for some Black Friday shopping?

If you're brave enough to venture in to the wild—er, retail stores—this Black Friday, you have a good shot at bagging bargains. Our Tightwad Tod recently offered some spot-on shopping tips, including insider information on online deals for those who fear of crowds or prefer sleeping in and eating leftovers the day after Thanksgiving.

But what if your refrigerator is on the fritz, the washer shakes while your oven no longer bakes, and your toaster hasn't been the same since the kids cooked up an experiment in it? Tom Aiello, a Sears spokesman, says you'll find good deals on major appliances in January and February but "incredible doorbusters" this holiday season, including package deals.

Sears has added in-store computer terminals in its appliance departments so that you can comparison-shop. The retailer promises to beat the lowest price and offers no interest for 12 months on appliances that cost more than $399 and free haul-away of your old model.

Some other good shopping advice:
• Many retailers claim to beat competitors' prices. Remember, you can often get a refund even if you already bought an appliance and the same model goes on sale at that retailer or another retailer at a lower price within 30 days of your purchase.

• Best Buy has eliminated rebates but is offering interest-free credit for 18 months on purchases of $499 and up and will haul away your appliance at no charge.

• Most retailers are offering free shipping for online purchases, although the amount you need to spend varies, but usually starts at $25 and up.

• Lowe's is giving a sneak peak at its Black Friday specials, including wine cellars, coffeemakers, and cordless drills.

• If you sign up at the Home Depot, you'll get a list of Black Friday specials on Thanksgiving morning.

• Target is offering shipping at no charge on mixers, food processors, and a variety of other items for the home.

• Amazon is having a kitchen and home sale with savings up to 65 percent through December 1.

• Finally, you'll find a community of shoppers on the lookout for good deals all over the Web at places like FatWallet.com.

Happy hunting, er, Thanksgiving.—Kimberly Janeway

Essential Information: Read Tightwad Tod on our Money blog for the latest information on holiday shopping and tips for getting the best deals. And visit our Home Improvement Guide interactive for advice on appliances, tools, and building materials.