lowball offers on stuff for sale?

[Jim mac]

just curious, if the price is reasonable, do you go and make a lowball offer? or if your happy with the item, and the price, do you just pay for it?
For instance, I bought a bunch of 200X stuff last week. I asked for a total package price for a bunch of 200X parts. price was offered. I had no problems with the price. paid for it and went home.
I put a 200X on craigslist. priced it at $625. Guy offered $400. then $450. I told him $550 as is. He's suppose to come back tomorrow for it. Now, heres the kicker. the trikes got a 200S carb on it. I have a 200X carb, spare axle, hubs, nicer tank, with both scoops, stock airbox, nos taillight, spare brakes. So the selling price would have included all the correct or better parts. BUT. since I get this lowball offer, the $550 price is now as is, and the extra parts will be put up for sale. Im sure I can make up more than the $75 difference.
I think the lowball offer is a artform. If its something Im interested in. I usually approach it as a "is that the best price?, if it's not firm, since I dont want to offend you, will you tell me the best buy it now price? also is there any spare parts you can throw in?" instead of the "how about X dollars?" (usually about 1/2 to 2/3rds the asking price.)

[200xman]

I wouldn't worry about offending someone. chances are that you'll never see them again anyway. What's the worst they can say, no? I have been lowballed and have done the same to other people. Bottom line is if you're the seller hold out for the price you want and if you're the buyer go for the lowest possible price you think they would take. Three years ago I picked up a 27' Formula boat for $5800. The guy was asking $9500, I offered $5500 and he said make it $5800 because he had to unload it. If you are going to try to really lowball someone just make sure you have the cash in your pocket. I have had a bunch of people try to beat me down and then say they will be back and never show. I doubt that guy will show up to look at your 200X since most people that try to lowball over the phone are usually just wasting your time.

[DeePa]

if the asking price is fair, and the machine reflects the asking price, i may try to save 100-150, but thats it.

if the item isnt even close to asking price i dont even bother.

[Jim mac]

actually the guy came over and looked at it. I really think he liked it, considering what that a few 200X trikes are for sale locally and I think mine is about the lowest price and most complete. Maybe the nicer things didnt really matter to the guy anyway. I usually just toss all the spare parts that go with the trike or whatever I sell in with the deal. But lately Ive wised up and started holding onto the odds and ends, and I seem to find uses for them. jim

[Jim mac]

well, got a call last night. guy called and said he changed his mind. Im glad he called, now I can swap to the nicer tank, hubs. Jim