eBay question

[Jim65]

I received a message once about ending an auction early.

Buyer: I really want this. Whats your absolute rock bottom price?

Me: Rock bottom $50

Buyer: Would you take $25?

I didn't even bother responding.

[jchcollins]

Originally Posted by Jim65

I received a message once about ending an auction early.

Buyer: I really want this. Whats your absolute rock bottom price?

Me: Rock bottom $50

Buyer: Would you take $25?

I didn't even bother responding.

Agreed that's ridiculous. Part of the problem of nuance when not negotiating face-to-face though - it's hard to tell if you think someone is serious about "rock bottom." That's where you have to take people at their word, but sadly many do not.

I don't mind lowballing people occasionally if it's still a lot of money, you never know what the situation is, but it's usually telling in the negotiations even with BIN. For example: Card is listed at $400. I offer $250. Seller responds $395. Yep...that should be pretty telling to you as the buyer.

[Jim65]

Originally Posted by jchcollins

Agreed that's ridiculous. Part of the problem of nuance when not negotiating face-to-face though - it's hard to tell if you think someone is serious about "rock bottom." That's where you have to take people at their word, but sadly many do not.

I don't mind lowballing people occasionally if it's still a lot of money, you never know what the situation is, but it's usually telling in the negotiations even with BIN. For example: Card is listed at $400. I offer $250. Seller responds $395. Yep...that should be pretty telling to you as the buyer.

I don't mind low ball offers, it creates a starting point at least, as long as the offer isn't a total insult ($10 on a $100 item).