How to Respond to eBay Buyers Who Criticize Your Pricing

Recently there was a discussion on my eBay Seller Facebook Group regarding how to respond to buyers who criticize prices. Savvy sellers do their research and know what the eBay market will bear. Have any of these scenarios happened to you?

1. A buyer sends you a story about how they "need" the item and explain all  the reasons they do not have the money to pay your asking price.

2. Your item is listed with a defect or for parts, and the customer makes a comment like, "Since it is in such bad condition, I'll give you X - you won't get your asking price."

3. Customer writes a long drawn-out narrative of everything that has gone wrong in their life and why you should come down on your price.

4. Customer compares the price of your vintage or discontinued item to a retail price. "I can get this at Costco for $10, why are you charging $30? (Obviously, they can't get it at Costco or they wouldn't be on eBay looking for it.)

The best course of action is to hold your tongue and reply in a professional way. Here are some great responses from sellers:

Lisa said, "Thank you for your interest. My price is firm but does include free shipping if that helps." Don't get drawn into rationalizing/explaining.

Amy said, "Accept, counter or decline, then move on. I have best offer on all my items. When I get an offer I glance at the offer and any message they may include and click the button and move on. There's no need for snarky replies, drawn out explanations, etc. It's a negotiation technique that some buyers use - it either works for them or doesn't. Sellers insulting them, trying to make them feel bad or just being plain out rude isn't going to stop them from making the same offers elsewhere. Just accept, counter or decline."


Sharon said, "I am sorry, I am not accepting offers on this product at this time."

These are all great answers. Bottom line, don't take it personally if someone doesn't like your price. You don't have to explain your pricing or rationalize about why an item is priced a certain way. This is business. Keep it professional.  Do your research, know the value of your item, and stick to your price. The right buyer will come along and be happy to pay your asking price.

Related Articles

How to Avoid Long Hold Times When Calling eBay

6 Free Ways to Learn What Sells on eBay

 83% of eBay Sellers Surveyed Do This - Do You?