Tips for Negotiating
- Sellers set their own prices and decide if they are willing to negotiate or not. Many factors go into this decision, like how much the seller initially paid for the item, its scarcity, how long it's been on the market, and interest from other buyers. Every situation is different, and we encourage you to negotiate to get the best price you can. We recommend these best practices to improve the likelihood of getting the price you want.
- Keep it friendly - The seller typically is from a small business that deeply values customer relationships.
- Avoid starting with a very low offer - Try leading with an offer that eliminates prolonged back and forth, and shows the seller you're serious about purchasing the item.
- Focus on your budget - Keep a number in mind for the amount you're comfortable spending, just as the seller has an amount they're willing to accept. If you're clear about what you're willing to pay, the seller can accept or send a counteroffer.
- Don't try to convince the seller that the item is priced incorrectly - Custom-made, vintage, and antique items generally don't have set prices. Prices you've seen for "similar" items are not always relevant due to changes in supply and demand, and variation of condition or provenance.
- Share what you love about the item - Sellers are passionate about their items and want to see that potential new owners will adequately care for them.
- Make an offer backed by payment and shipping information - Sellers are more likely to accept your offer if you provide shipping and payment information upfront. You'll only be charged if your offer is accepted, and once it is, we'll be able to quickly process your order at the agreed upon price.
Here is a link to learn how to negotiate prices on 1stDibs: Negotiating Prices.