Question
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/servl.../BNStory/Front
Answer
May be in the minority here, but I just can't see the logic in refunding these bidder's money. I agree the seller's tactics were way less than eithical, but the fault for the high bids falls only on the bidders. All they had to do was stop bidding. (Unless someone was holding a gun to their head.)
The total selling price should be taken from the sellers and given to charity, then the bidders that brought suit should be assesed a "You are stupid" fine and that also given to charity, and have to wear one of Galagar's "Stupid Darts" on their foreheads for a couple of years.
DL
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The buyer's paid more than they should have, regardless of what they were willing to pay. When you go to a store to pay $50 for something and it is on sale for $40, should you have to give the extra to charity? They were ripped off and I think it is correct for them to be refunded.
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I feel that sellers shilling up bids are wrong. They should have their accounts at least temporarily suspended for doing this. I do NOT believe that buyers ought to be allowed to sue for being stupid or caught up in bidding fever!!! The bottom line: if I were to pay $100,000.00 for a 2004 Harley Davidson Softtail Classic, it "ain't" the dealer's fault that I didn't do my homework! It IS the dealer's fault that he was unethical. I should have someone bong me on the head for my offense & HE should be fined or his dealer's license suspended for a period of time (not sued) for being unethical.
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When I first read about this, I was of the opinion like Live and Dell. In every way the final price rests with the winning bidder. I think this refund business sets a wacky precident ... where does it end? Does a Ford dealership now have to worry about a buyer suing them for paying too much?
However, there was unethical and illegal activity. I'm still pondering this one.
It's sort of like the entrapment issue. The whole thing about a policewoman solicting for sex then arresting a guy when he agrees. You can argue she is dishonest OR that the guy should not be in a postion to accept sex.
In any event, a bidder should expect competition ... just not from the seller.
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I'm glad these smackheads got flipped. Too much mud in the water anyways!
Answer
"The buyer's paid more than they should have, regardless of what they were willing to pay."
I guess that's relative Ron.
If I honestly describe and list an item on ebay that's worth $100.00, and the bidding goes to $500.00, should I stop the auction and sell it when the bidding reaches $100.00. Not this kid. If someone is willing to pay/bid 500 bucks far be it from me to stop them. ;o)
Whether I'm bidding against a cheating seller or other "real" bidders, I know how much I want the item. If I'm willing to pay 10 times it's actual value that's my choice. I'll be mad as heck if I find out there was shill bidding, but I still would have bid that high regardless.
Aside from obvious things like being under age or insane and the like, we have to be responsible for our own actions.