I think Pip started this thread based on another thread where a $2700 obo taxi was for sale. I commented that when I see something like that (OBO), I tend not to even respond to the ad or make an offer as the seller clearly thinks that his game is worth the price he's asking.

The way I perceive OBO is that the seller believes his item is valued at the price he's asking but may come down a bit, hence the OBO. However, if the prevailing rate for a taxi is $1200 and you make that offer, I feel pretty confident that you're going to get the "you lowballing son of a gun" response.

In the case of the taxi, the seller indicated that he would entertain offers but with his asking price well above what most believe a taxi would sell for, OBO really doesn't mean anything in my opinion.

The wording of the ad doesn't really affect my response. If it's priced fairly and it's a game I'm looking for then I'll respond. I don't mind negotiating so whether it's firm or OBO doesn't really matter. The asking price does.

Dave

And then you have guys like this on craigslist...

THIS MACHINE IS LIKE NEW USED VERY LITTLE
ONLY 600 MADE
EXCELLENT CONDITION
PRICE IS FIRM NOT NEGOTIABLE!!!
BEST OFFERS ACCEPTED

Wait, what? Your price is firm (at $3500 and the machine is a Harley Davidson) yet you're taking best offers. Do you mean you'll take better offers (above $3500) or do you mean that you'll take offers and if you decide your price isn't firm you might consider it?

Of course, writing in all caps means that they know what they're talking about and that the deal must be a steal, right?

Dave