Classified Ad Etiquette

Hey everyone!

Not quite sure where to ask this, but since the ads are usually about equipment, I guess here is as good as any!

So here is my situation, followed with a question:

Occasionally when I see an item that I would really like to buy on Astromart, but that I can not justify the seller's asking price, either because I think the price is too high, or because I just flat out don't have the budget to afford it, I will offer the seller what I can afford, or what I think its worth. I offer lower than asking price maybe 1/4 of the time - not more often.

Usually I say something cheery such as, "Hey! If you would be willing to accept xxx$ shipped to Southern California, I think you can consider this sold, unless you have already sold it, of course!"

This last time I received a sarcastic, negative response accusing me of "jewing" him down (their words, not mine). The seller went on to tell me to, "find another seller" because he was "insulted". BTW, the markdown I offered was LESS than 10%

WOW! I mean, in a decade of being active online with either BBS's and the internet, I have NEVER had anyone attack me for making an offer on used equipment for sale. It never even occured to me to worry about it.

This case was particularly ironic because the seller had already FAILED to sell the item in question and had reposted with a "reduced price".

So my question:

Is it incorrect "netiquette" to offer an advertiser of used equipment a price which is less than his current asking price???

Thanks to those who reply,

Confusedly,
James

It might make sense to say "Firm" when listing item if they will only take the asking price - or "OBO" if willing to negotiate. This way there is no misunderstanding. Most people expect to negotiate at least a little - but not if "Firm" is used and the price is right.

Over the long run of owning an item, has anyone noticed how satisfied they are with items purchased below the asking price vs. items purchased for the asking price? I've noticed that things I've purchased below the asking price end up becoming a problem at some point in the future...and it's usually got nothing to do with the condition of the item when purchased. When I pay the full asking price; the item always works long and well for me...until I wear it out.

Not talking about misrepresentation on the part of the seller here; the discussion is limited to undamaged items received in an "as represented" condition. It even applies to new stuff. I think this is more metaphysical or theological than anything else...some kind of unwritten law.

Thought I'd broken out of this cycle a couple of years ago with a used muzzleloader purchased for well below what the seller was asking. It shot heavy loads like a ray-gun. Then in a moment of distraction I failed to fully seat a bullet and ruined the barrel...my fault entirely. Even though the manufacturer provided a free barrel; it was quite a hassle getting that gun working again. Now it's a good shooter but not what it was before. This is just one example of many.

This has become such a feature in my buying & selling experiences that I refuse to try to haggle with a seller. If I don't think his asking price is fair; I won't make an offer. The only exception to this for me is cars & pickup trucks where I've had good luck by offering a fixed amount above invoice.

Anybody else notice this; or is it just me? I beg your pardons if this seems silly or off topic.
Bob Young

Just to put a cap on this event, after my scathing e-mail and negative feedback, the seller wrote me an abject apology which I accepted. Seems he had a very bad day and took it out on me. At least its nice to know that he was aware of his transgression and this was not his normal mode of operation.

I successfully petitioned to change my feedback to a neutral 3star criticism, noting his apology and reiterating that I was not impunging his honesty.

All water under the bridge now!

Thanks for all the comments on this topic.

James

Even just this one thread has proven there's all kinds in the world...

There's another angle on selling etiquette, though. If you tell someone you're ready to sell the item to them, then be email-silent for almost a week and then tell them you've changed your mind, don't be surprised if they're a bit miffed.

I doubt the guy who pulled this on me is a regular, but I would think that if you have *any* doubts as to whether you want to sell something, don't post the dingdang ad!

[epithets sanitized for family consumption]