Posted By:
JimCrandellI guess I am a "morally and ethically challenged" individual as I do this often. As Al said part of it is defensive as I feel everyone does it but part is playing offense.
If its someone I know and have done business with its usually an easy discussion. If not, then I make my best bid and tell him if he keeps it on ebay I have no intention of bidding. I would say 75% of the time if the seller says no he gets less than what I offered.
Lastly, aside from the sale it is often in the sellers best interest to end the auction early. He gets to know what I am looking for and can sell directly to me in the future and not have to deal through ebay.