Date:         Tue, 22 Jun 2010 18:03:25 -0500
Reply-To:     mcneely4@COX.NET
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Dave Mcneely <mcneely4@COX.NET>
Subject:      Re: Dealing w/ eBay vendors who want non-eBay sale
Comments: To: BenT Syncro <syncro@GMAIL.COM>
In-Reply-To:  <13DDE6B5-D303-4CF8-87E6-B72F267C2805@gmail.com>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=utf-8

---- BenT Syncro <syncro@GMAIL.COM> wrote:
> How do you guys feel about vendors you find on eBay who insist on
> completing deals outside of eBay?
>
> I was shopping for a rear engine carrier for my 84 Subie powered van.
> Found the listings from Small Car Performance but did not see the 2wd
> mount. I asked if they can list one for sale so I can then buy it in
> compliance with eBay rules. The SCP contact named Mao, said they would
> only sell via their non-eBay website.

My understanding of eBay rules is that it is not allowed to sell the item listed outside of eBay.  Items not listed should be another matter, although I would not think much of someone who used eBay listings as a way to troll for customers for merchandise not listed.  But I understand that you inquired about the item, not the other way around.  So, I see no problem.  You found a vendor who deals in a particular array of merchandise, and inquired about an item not advertised.  If he offers it, and you want it, buy it, I'd say.  On the other hand, if he advertised it via eBay, and you or he initiated a negotiation for the sale outside of eBay, then that would be a no-no.

David McNeely