Making an Offer

[Bayou Minou]

I just came across a listing for a handbag that appears to have been altered. It should have straps and handles, but looking at the same style that has sold, this particular bag only has the straps... and the leather patches where the handles would have been.

How on earth should I come up with an offer based on this? I usually try to base an offer on what has sold. I don't want to insult the seller with a lowball offer, but... ?

 

[Amazona]

You could ask the seller if the bag has been altered. If it has, I'd say 25-30% of its value is gone. With some bags, especially high end, even 40-50%.

 

[papertiger]

I just came across a listing for a handbag that appears to have been altered. It should have straps and handles, but looking at the same style that has sold, this particular bag only has the straps... and the leather patches where the handles would have been.

How on earth should I come up with an offer based on this? I usually try to base an offer on what has sold. I don't want to insult the seller with a lowball offer, but... ?

It sounds like you absolutely want it, but realise not that many would (for any price). After pointing out the 'missing strap' and 'leather patches' I think you could easily ask for 50% off the average resale price and be taken seriously, just point out the defects politely and make the offer sincerely and you should be fine. They may back with a counter-offer in which case the ball will be in your court.