How do I tactfully back out of an agreement?

Question

For nearly a month now I have been trying to sell an item via Craigslist and consignment sales. Finally someone offered to buy the item from me. She had the opportunity to pick it up Friday. She changed the pick up time to Saturday - then to Monday. I had to cancel our meeting on Tuesday.

Now she wants her father in law to pick it up on Thursday.

During this process week long process I realized that I no longer want to sell the item. After a discussion with my husband, I am anticipating that we may have need for it in the next year or so.

I know that this woman wants the item badly, however, I no longer wish to sell it - and for this I feel guilty.

How do I back out of the agreement tactfully?

Answer 1

Call her and tell her!

hi. thanks for the interest in this item!  I regreatly inform you that it's no longer available!  

I'm sorry for any problems this may have caused.

have a good day!

yes stay short and sweet... don't get into why your keeping weather it was picked up by someone else or what not!

that can be on her brain if she asks why!

just say sorry item is no longer available!  stick with that!

if she is instistant!  then say because you changed to many times i had to close an appoinment and now i'm keeping it it's no longer available have a great day!  sorry for the confusion!

and hang up!

Answer 2

I like what Mad Luv said, strait to the point, you don't owe her any explanation. If money was exchanged just simply return it to her.

You're not a store, she inconvenienced you to the point that made you rethink your sale. It happens. I'm sure we'll see her post a question about someone backing out of a sale on craigslist on Thursday! ;p  

Answer 3

You should honor the agreement, but the agreement has been broken three times by her.  Contact her and say you couldn't wait any longer.  The item isn't available any more.  Be nice and sound sorry.

Answer 4

Craigslist buyers tend to be flaky, as you've experienced so I think it's great you feel a little guilty.  I would e-mail her and say: I deeply apologize for no longer being able to honor our transaction it turns out I need it after all.  I wish you the best in your search for (said item) and apologize for any and all inconveniences this has caused you.