"What's Your Best Price?"

I have asked that question. Guess what? In many cases we've made a deal. I've been asked that question. Guess what? In many cases we've made a deal. If it's OBO the price is negotiable. When I ask a question, I'm serious about buying. Plus I have money. If I'm ignored, that's a lost sale.

How about when the seller's posted asking price is way too high? Why should I just ignore it if it's an item I want? It works both ways. When I ask a seller what their best price is, it's so I can gauge how flexible he/she is without actually insulting them with what they might think is a lowball offer.

Anyone that asks any question is a potential sale. Money is money. Business is business. A deal's a deal.

@Mrtennis... If the sellers only replied with "the listed price" there would be many unsold items. Negotiations are part of the process. That's how items get sold.

Then I'm the exception. I only ask if I intend to buy.

I just joined AgoN but have 47 transactions at Head-Fi. All perfect. I'd come up with a different retort if I were you.

I have to add that on Head-Fi (and on other hobbyist sites) they do not have an eBay-like system that AudioGon has. So there is no way to "bid" on those items.

I take exception to suggestiong only the buyer gets to dictate pricing. I have not only asked a buyer what their best price is but have also been asked that question on an item I had for sale. In several instances, on both sides of the transaction, it has resulted in a completed transaction. I have an excellent reputation and have many references. I have 40+ transaction on Head-Fi and 100's of other on other hobbyist sited through the years. Many of which are high dolllar items. I'm hardly a newbie.

Ignoring anyone who asks for a best price only reduces the potential for sale. I prefer to expand all my potential options. It doesn't take that much time or effort to send an email or response. I've had people who never even discussed price, had me send many pics, ask many questions, commit to purchases only to flake out. There are many things in business transactions that are frustrating. That's just business. If I'm selling something, anyone is free to ask me any legit question they want. I promise I won't whine about it later. At least not publicly. LoL :)