Is it illegal/against Ebay terms for someone to ask for my Ebay reserve price?

Question

I think it is...but I just wanted to get a confirmation from a more experienced Ebayer than myself. I thought I remembered reading that somewhere. They sent me a private message asking me directly what my reserve price is for an auction, and even went as far as to ask me if I have "considered Buy It Now" instead of auction. Yes, I have...if I would have used Buy It Now, probably nobody would buy it. *roll eyes* Go figure.

Anyway....isn't this wrong for them to be asking?

Answer 1

I have seen the reserve price in listings.  They can ask and you can tell.  Let the bidder bid if you are uncomfortable telling them what the price is.  Everyone has their maximum bid anyway.  If it does not meet your reserve, you can deal with it then.  When you reply to their emails include your email address in the answer.

Answer 2

No, it's not.  Everyone likes to haggle at a yard sale, and eBay is just an on line yard sale.  They can ask.  You don't have to tell them, but be aware that you might be losing a potential customer.