Hey,
I have a first-time situation and just wanted to get a couple of opinions before responding. I had a buyer purchase an original 1953 Packard sales brochure for $25. I received a wonderfully sarcastic email several days ago from him.
This is too cool. After I pay $30.00 for the Packard brochure, you put the others on ebay for 4.95. Makes me feel warm and fuzzy inside"
The item he is referencing for $4.95 is NOT mine!
I responded with the following:
"I believe this email may have been sent in error. I do not have any Packard (or any other vintage literature) listed for $4.95. I price my items at what I believe them to be worth. I cannot control the pricing set by others, but I believe that I offer quality items at their fair market value. My pricing is often less than other large literature sellers. I do hope you are satisfied with the brochure and hope to do business again in the future."
He responded: "I don't want the item. I want a refund." after sending another email a day earlier with only the subject line "No I am not happy!"
In the past, I have happily given refunds to buyers where the listing had a significant error, the item was lost or damaged, or where the buyer made a sincere effort to reach a comprimise when their bid was a mistake.
I absolutely do not consider finding a similar item cheaper to be a valid reason for a return, especially when the item was exactly as described, arrived on time, and had a clearly stated shipping cost. I sell low-cost items and my profit margins are extremely thin.
I do not want to issue a refund but am concerned that he may try a chargeback, etc. I do not use tracking numbers to keep shipping costs competitive, so I would lose with Paypal if that were the case. I am less concerned about negative feedback as I have 2000+ 100% positive, but would prefer to avoid that as well.
How would you suggest responding?
Thanks in advance!
Mike.
