Key takeaways
- Decide your minimum before anyone messages, and you will never negotiate against yourself.
- Counter with a specific number instead of ignoring low offers.
- Holds go to whoever shows up with payment first, unless you take a deposit.
- Bundles are the easiest way to sell more and haggle less.
Messages for online buyers
Yes, it's available! It's in great shape and works perfectly. I can meet near [place] today after 5 or tomorrow morning. What works for you?
Thanks for the offer! I can't go that low. The lowest I can do is $[X], which is already below what similar ones are selling for. Let me know if that works.
Thanks for your interest! The price is firm at $[X]. It's priced to sell, so I'm happy to hold it for whoever can pick up first.
I'm happy to hold it until [time] today. After that it goes to the next person who can pick up. Would that work?
If you take both, I'll do $[X] total for the pair, which saves you $[Y].
Hi, I waited at [place] at [time]. If you're still interested, let me know today; otherwise I'll move on to the next buyer.
At the garage sale
I can meet you in the middle at $[X].
We open at 7, but you're welcome to come back! The good stuff is still here.
Tell you what, add that lamp and I'll do $20 for all three.
Rules that keep you in control
- Know your floor before you list. Write it down if you need to.
- Do not drop your price just because someone asks "what's your lowest?" Ask them to make an offer instead.
- Keep it friendly and short. The person who stays polite usually gets the sale.
Frequently asked questions
How do I respond to a lowball offer politely?
Thank them, state that you cannot go that low, and give a specific counteroffer: "The lowest I can do is $X."
Prices and tips in this guide are general guidance for U.S. sellers based on typical resale markets. They are not a certified appraisal or a guarantee of what an item will sell for. For insurance, legal, tax, or high-value items, consult a qualified appraiser.