A next step in the evolutionary processs in online auction deals is the use of the "Best Offer."   Relatively new, this brings another dimension to the entire online auction experience.  Some dealers list Buy Now prices during the bidding process, and with this we enter the barter arena with the addition of  "OBO" (or best offer).  Many of us are familiar with this barter process in the classifieds of our local newspapers, or at local flea markets and estate sales. Online it is slightly different. 

1.  For one thing, Email is used instead of one-to-one contact with the seller.  For some this may make it easier, for others it might present problems such as timing, and to a large extent timing is everything.

2.  When To Contact The Seller To Make An Offer.  Although any time in the bidding process is okay; afterall, you have nothing to lose by asking, there are better times than others.  For instance:

• If the item has not been bidded on, or the bidding amounts are low and remaining bidding time is short. 
• If there is a "Buy It Now" price, and the current bid is low.
• If the item is very popular like the PS3 was for the holidays, you can make an offer that is more than the retail price was, but within your budget.  This is for those people who ‘Have to have it NOW!’–you know who you are.
• The item did not sell and will have to be relisted.  This is probably the optimum time to make an offer, but remember, don’t insult the seller with a ridiculous offer, make it reasonable considering the original retail price, condition, popularity, etc. 
• If the item did not sell because of a "reserve," email the seller to see what her/his best price would be.

3.  What $hould  you offer?  Well, that depends if you have done your research on the item. 

• How popular is it?  Again, like the PS3 or Wii, if supplies are low, you will have to pay above retail. 
• The rarity of the item also comes into play when making your offer.  Or you may get lucky and be the only one that sees the real value of the item. 
• For Antiques and Art there are reference materials.  Nothing pays off more than education.  Do your research.  MDM often goes to online auction sites and takes a look at high bids or listings that are unfamiliar–all the time increasing her knowledge not only for online auctions, but for local sales, thrift store finds, and so forth.
• Shipping. Bidders can be turned off at the expense of paying beaucoup bucks for shipping the article.  Always factor that in your bid or counteroffer–shipping is negotiable.  Furniture is more difficult to sell online because of shipping unless it is museum quality or the bidder lives near the seller and can personally pick-up the merchandise–if this is the case be sure to ask. 
• You can sweeten your offer by making immediate payment, or making a condition that money order will be sent in 24-48 hours after reaching an agreement.  Of course, you are safer with paying on line with credit card which allows you recourse should the deal go sour.

Related Articles You'll Enjoy!

• Online Auctions How to Bid and Sell with the Best-Part 2
• Inside An Online Auction Store
• Tip of the Week #14: Beware of Spoof!
• Nervous About Auctions? Markdown Mom Says Take The Plunge At This Online Site!
• Online Auctions How To Bid And Sell With The Best-Part 1
• ▪ Local Auction Basics
• Wii Fit: Best Pre-Order Price
• Clear Out Clutter By Selling Collectibles: Part 1 Determining Price
• ▪ Sold Out - Or Is It?
• Bargain Banter: Even Without The Snow, It’s Beginning To Look A Lot Like Christmas

Sign-Up for Daily E-Mail Gems from

(No Ratings Yet)  Loading ...