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What is an Appropriate Amount to Negotiate?

When it comes to the appropriate amount to negotiate, please be sure to approach the seller with a respectful and friendly tone from the start of the process. Leading with a thoughtful and sensible offer will eliminate prolonged back-and-forth and show the seller you’re serious about purchasing the item. As a helpful note, if the offer differs significantly from the list price, a seller may not accept it.

With respect to e-commerce platforms, it’s important to remember that sellers typically represent a small business, so while they are glad to retain you as a customer, they’re also hoping to keep the price as close to the original listing price as possible. As such, please avoid initiating the process with a very low offer, as this might signal a disregard for the seller's carefully considered pricing. And in your communications with the seller, it’s best not to suggest that the item is priced incorrectly.

The thoroughly vetted sellers on 1stDibs will set their own prices and decide whether or not they are willing to negotiate. 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. Not every seller will be willing to negotiate on price, but if they are, the Make an Offer button will be on the item page.   

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