Gear selling ethics and best offers.

Briefly, I'm selling my old bass combo on craigslist. I said I'd listen to legitimate offers. I had a guy simply ask what the condition of the combo is, then he said he didn't live too far from me. I haven't heard back from him, but what I'm anticipating is that he'll say he'll buy it, come over, look it, then try to talk me down based on anything he can find. I already had one person do a similar on the spot pawner's negotiation when I was selling some effects pedals, but thankfully I came back with a strong enough counter-offer not to lose. Back to the email, when I responded back, I told him flat out that any offers or trades other than the one I listed must be layed out first before I would let him come and buy the amp. I don't mind him coming over and checking it out, then giving me an offer, as long as he doesn't pressure me into buying it.

Anyways, does this sound ethical enough to you? I don't want to be dealing with any whiners if I encounter them, so at least some outside opinions would be appreciated.

[meev992]

Yes, protect your investment, and stand firm on your end.

[Valerus]

Definitely, man. Don't let them manipulate you.

[MyUsernameHere]

Sounds completely reasonable to me. Don't think I'd ever let complete strangers come snoop around my pad though--at least without hiding all my other valuables.

[meev992]

Originally Posted by MyUsernameHere

Sounds completely reasonable to me. Don't think I'd ever let complete strangers come snoop around my pad though--at least without hiding all my other valuables.

+1, take the goods outside and don't let them in.

[Phalex]

Take the bass stuff out to the garage. I wouldn't feel comfortable with some dude checking out my house.

[wazzel]

I am selling some gear on craigslist also. I would negotiate price before hand. I know my gear is in good shape and once played would be worth what I am asking. I will not sell anything with out the person checking it out. I want proof in front of both of us that things are working properly. Once they have checked the gear out they can pay what we agreed and take the gear home or go home empty.

[dancehallclasher]

Originally Posted by Phalex

Take the bass stuff out to the garage. I wouldn't feel comfortable with some dude checking out my house.

I would, but then I live in kind of a crappy apartment. I recommend it!

[neurotictim]

Originally Posted by wazzel

I am selling some gear on craigslist also. I would negotiate price before hand. I know my gear is in good shape and once played would be worth what I am asking. I will not sell anything with out the person checking it out. I want proof in front of both of us that things are working properly. Once they have checked the gear out they can pay what we agreed and take the gear home or go home empty.

+1 I don't sell anything on Craigslist without full disclosure, bass gear or otherwise. I expect the same from others, and if people get miffed at my rules, there's always someone else who'll buy (or sell) to/from me.

All in all, I've had pretty good experiences with Cragislist.

Thanks guys, you all reaffirmed where I was leaning in the first place.

FWIW, the guy never responded back. Sometimes you can tell when a guy is looking to screw you, or at least swing himself the deal of a century at your own expense.

[bluestarbass]

I ALWAYS negotiate before I go look at an item in person. Saves everyones time. Its also alot easier to negotiate over an email so no ones ego gets in the way.