eBay question: WWYD?

[citymama]

I won a not-inexpensive Oilily swing top on an eBay auction. The item condition was listed as "excellent" "worn just a couple of items." The item was shipped really promptly. But the top is sort of weirdly stretched out - it rises on one side and is longer on the other (it's not supposed to do this!). I bought it despite the price because it would have been perfect for my DD's second birthday, but definitely can't use it for that given the fit.

I wrote to the seller and delicately pointed out this flaw. She was super-polite, but said she hadn't noticed it, seemed fine to her - enjoy the top! If I had paid half the price, it would not have been a big deal at all. It's usable and is adorable - but not as described. Should I just accept that reply, or ask the seller for a return/partial refund? What's the protocol/acceptable? I've never had such an issue before so no idea what's done. And I don't want her to mess up my 100% positive feedback! Thanks for any suggestions!

[ha98ed14]

If you don't want the top for what you bought it for, ask for your $ back and return the top. Especially if you don't think you will ever put in on DD. If the fit is funky, why would she wear it, even if it isn't her b-day? You could also ask for a partial refund as a compromise.

If you don't want to rock the boat by asking for a refund, go on the seller's rating and give her a bad mark for "item's condition not as described" and leave it at that. Personally, I think you should get your $ back, especially if you paid anything close to half of the original retail price.

[happy2bamom]

I would contact the seller again and politely explain your situation (and that the item is not in the condition that she stated) and then give her one or two suggestions for a satisfactory resolution. I think that you have to ask for what you want, b/c she doesn't seem to be offering anything. If she chooses not to correct the situation, I would leave negative feedback.

[Kungjo]

I would contact the seller again and politely explain your situation (and that the item is not in the condition that she stated) and then give her one or two suggestions for a satisfactory resolution. I think that you have to ask for what you want, b/c she doesn't seem to be offering anything. If she chooses not to correct the situation, I would leave negative feedback.

I agree. If you don't ask for it, the seller might get the impression that you'll keep it regardless of condition and won't be motivated to make it right. Be polite but firm and keep emotion out of the e-mail. It can often be interpreted the wrong way. Just state the facts and offer them a few options to resolve this. If she's not willing to compromise and you don't want it, I would return for refund.

[Momof3Labs]

How did the top look in the photo in the auction (did you overlook the flaw)? Is this a flaw that would be apparent to anyone - including someone not familiar with Oilily? I don't know that I agree that you should get your money back; buying on eBay isn't like buying at your favorite retailer where you can return for most any reason. I just feel like this is a grey area when it comes to an eBay purchase.

Have you tried washing it and drying it flat to reshape it?

[citymama]

The flaw is definitely visible to anybody, not just an Oilily expert (I'm not one!). The retailer said she didn't notice it while listing, and I believe her. Taking a closer look at the list photo (not a very good quality photo), you can see the unevenness, but only if you are looking for it! That's a good idea re sending her photos of what it looks like.

I'm not going to wash and reshape it in case there's a return situation, but I will if I keep it - good suggestion. Like I said, I don't want to be a PITA or a jerk, but I also don't want to just shrug my shoulders and say, too bad, that's life on eBay...without at least registering my disappointment. I did politely request a partial refund or return (never done so in the past) and hope she is amenable. But if not, I don't plan to leave negative feedback or dispute on Paypal - too much hassle and I can see how this might have been an honest mistake. Will just have learned my lesson about buying used on eBay....

[JTsMom]

Is it so obvious that you can show the flaw in a photo? If so, I would try to do that, and include it with your email. I do some ebay selling, and I know that I, and a lot of other serious sellers, don't typically do partial refunds b/c they have been so abused by some people. If you aren't happy with it, I'd just try to return it for a full refund.

How did you pay? You could probably win a Paypal dispute if you used it. How's the seller's reputation? Does she state a refund policy?

[KrisM]

Is it so obvious that you can show the flaw in a photo? If so, I would try to do that, and include it with your email. I do some ebay selling, and I know that I, and a lot of other serious sellers, don't typically do partial refunds b/c they have been so abused by some people. If you aren't happy with it, I'd just try to return it for a full refund.

How did you pay? You could probably win a Paypal dispute if you used it. How's the seller's reputation? Does she state a refund policy?

I agree. I sell a lot of used clothing and I don't do partial refunds. I will however, do a full refund, if it's sent back in the same condition I sent it out. If it's clear to me that I missed the flaw when I listed it, I'll refund shipping, but usually I don't refund either shipping.

[citymama]

Update: the eBay retailer never emailed me back after I requested a return or partial refund. I've now emailed her twice and it's been over a week.

Oh well...dozens of positive transactions and one not-so-great one buying kiddie clothing on eBay...guess it was inevitable...

[bunnisa]

Update: the eBay retailer never emailed me back after I requested a return or partial refund. I've now emailed her twice and it's been over a week.

Oh well...dozens of positive transactions and one not-so-great one buying kiddie clothing on eBay...guess it was inevitable...

If you're within the timeframe, I'd go ahead and file a Paypal dispute. That often gets a response when nothing else will.