Write professional eBay buyer messages for inquiries, shipping updates, returns, and disputes that protect your seller rating
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# eBay Buyer Messages: Vintage Watch Listing
**PRODUCT:**
Vintage Seiko 5 Automatic Watch - 1970s, Recently Serviced
**PRICE:** $175 + Free Shipping
---
## PRE-SALE MESSAGES
### Scenario 1: "Is this still available?"
**Buyer Message:**
"Hi, is this watch still available?"
**Your Response:**
```
Hi! Yes, the Seiko 5 is still available and ready to ship.
A few quick highlights in case helpful:
- Recently serviced (new crystal, fresh gaskets)
- Keeping accurate time (+/- 10 sec/day)
- Original bracelet fits up to 7.5" wrist
Happy to answer any questions or send additional photos. If you are ready to purchase, I typically ship within 1 business day.
Thanks for your interest!
```
**Why This Works:**
- Confirms availability immediately
- Adds value with key details
- Offers help without being pushy
- Mentions fast shipping (builds confidence)
---
### Scenario 2: "Can you do a better price?"
**Buyer Message:**
"Would you take $140 for this?"
**Your Response (Option A - Accept):**
```
Hi! Thanks for your offer.
I can do $150 if that works for you—that is the best I can offer given the recent service work. I will also ship it out tomorrow if you purchase today.
Let me know and I will send you an updated invoice, or feel free to make an offer through eBay for $150.
Thanks!
```
**Your Response (Option B - Decline):**
```
Hi! Thanks for reaching out.
I appreciate the offer, but $175 is already my best price for this piece. Comparable Seiko 5s from this era are going for $200+ on eBay, and this one has been recently serviced which adds significant value.
If you decide to move forward at asking price, I am happy to ship it out tomorrow. Let me know if you have any other questions!
Thanks for your interest.
```
**Why This Works:**
- Polite, not dismissive
- Justifies price with specifics
- Leaves door open
- Creates urgency ("ship tomorrow")
---
### Scenario 3: "Can you tell me more about the condition?"
**Buyer Message:**
"What is the real condition? Any scratches or issues I should know about?"
**Your Response:**
```
Great question—here is the honest breakdown:
**Case:** Light wear consistent with age (50+ years old). No deep scratches or dents. The case back has minor desk-diving marks.
**Crystal:** Brand new—replaced during recent service. No scratches.
**Dial:** Original, excellent condition. No fading, spots, or damage. Lume plots have aged to a nice cream color.
**Movement:** Serviced 3 months ago. Running at +8 sec/day. Power reserve is strong (40+ hours).
**Bracelet:** Original Seiko bracelet with stretch consistent with vintage pieces. Fits up to 7.5" wrist.
I tried to capture everything in the photos, but happy to take specific shots if you want to see any area up close.
Let me know!
```
**Why This Works:**
- Thorough and honest
- Organized by component
- Manages expectations
- Offers additional photos
---
## POST-SALE MESSAGES
### Scenario 4: Shipping Confirmation
**Situation:** Item shipped, want to notify buyer proactively
**Your Message:**
```
Hi [Buyer Name]!
Great news—your Seiko 5 shipped today!
**Tracking:** [TRACKING NUMBER]
**Carrier:** USPS Priority Mail
**Estimated Delivery:** [DATE]
You can track the package here: [TRACKING LINK]
I packed it securely in a padded box, so it should arrive safe and sound. Once it arrives, please take a moment to inspect everything and let me know if you have any questions.
Thanks again for your purchase—enjoy the watch!
[Your Name]
```
**Why This Works:**
- Proactive (prevents "where is my order?")
- All info in one place
- Sets expectation for inspection
- Friendly close
---
### Scenario 5: Delivery Follow-Up
**Situation:** Tracking shows delivered, checking in
**Your Message:**
```
Hi [Buyer Name]!
I saw that your Seiko 5 was delivered today—I hope it arrived in perfect condition!
Please take a moment to inspect the watch and make sure everything matches the description. If you have any questions about setting the time, adjusting the bracelet, or anything else, I am happy to help.
If everything looks good, I would really appreciate it if you could leave feedback when you get a chance. It helps small sellers like me more than you know!
Enjoy your new watch, and thanks again for your purchase.
Best,
[Your Name]
```
**Why This Works:**
- Shows you care post-sale
- Offers help proactively
- Asks for feedback naturally (not pushy)
- Personal touch
---
## PROBLEM RESOLUTION MESSAGES
### Scenario 6: "Item not received" (but tracking shows delivered)
**Buyer Message:**
"I never received my package but tracking says delivered. Where is it?"
**Your Response:**
```
Hi [Buyer Name],
I am sorry to hear the package has not reached you—I understand how frustrating that is. Let me help figure this out.
Tracking shows it was delivered on [DATE] to [CITY/ZIP]. A few things to check:
1. **Mailroom/Front Desk:** If you live in an apartment or condo, it may have been left there
2. **Safe Location:** Carriers sometimes leave packages in side doors, garages, or with neighbors
3. **Other Household Members:** Sometimes packages get brought in and set aside
If none of those pan out, I recommend:
- Filing a missing mail search with USPS: [LINK]
- Checking with your local post office with the tracking number
Please let me know what you find. If it truly is lost, we will figure out a solution together—I want to make sure you are taken care of.
Thanks for your patience.
```
**Why This Works:**
- Empathetic, not defensive
- Practical troubleshooting steps
- Does not immediately blame buyer or carrier
- Commits to resolution
---
### Scenario 7: "Item not as described"
**Buyer Message:**
"This watch has more scratches than shown in photos. Not happy with this purchase."
**Your Response:**
```
Hi [Buyer Name],
I am really sorry to hear the watch did not meet your expectations. That is never the experience I want my buyers to have.
I do my best to photograph and describe items accurately, but I understand that vintage items can look different in person than on screen.
I want to make this right. Here are your options:
**Option 1: Partial Refund**
If you would like to keep the watch, I can offer a $25 partial refund to compensate for the discrepancy.
**Option 2: Full Return**
If you would prefer to return it, I will send you a prepaid shipping label and issue a full refund once it arrives.
Please let me know which works better for you, or if you have another solution in mind. I want you to be happy with this transaction.
Thanks for giving me the chance to resolve this.
```
**Why This Works:**
- Apologizes without admitting fault
- Offers clear options
- Empowers buyer to choose
- Protects against negative feedback
---
### Scenario 8: Return Request
**Buyer Message:**
"I want to return this. It is not what I expected."
**Your Response:**
```
Hi [Buyer Name],
No problem—I am sorry the watch was not what you were looking for.
Here is how we can handle the return:
1. Please ship the watch back in its original packaging
2. Use a tracked shipping method (USPS Priority Mail works great)
3. Once I receive it and confirm condition, I will issue your full refund within 24 hours
**Return Address:**
[Your Address]
Please note: I ask that the watch be returned in the same condition it was sent—unworn with all included accessories.
If you have any questions about the return process, just let me know. I will keep an eye out for the package.
Thanks for your understanding.
```
**Why This Works:**
- No guilt trip
- Clear instructions
- Sets expectations on condition
- Professional throughout
---
### Scenario 9: Negative Feedback Response
**Situation:** Buyer left negative feedback, you want to respond publicly
**Public Response:**
```
I am sorry this transaction did not meet expectations. I reached out to resolve the issue but did not hear back. My return policy is always open, and I stand behind every item I sell. I would still be happy to make this right—please message me.
```
**Private Follow-Up Message:**
```
Hi [Buyer Name],
I saw your feedback and I am genuinely sorry you had a negative experience. That is never my intention.
I would really like the chance to make this right. Whether that is a partial refund, full return, or another solution—I am open to whatever works for you.
If we can resolve this, I would be grateful if you would consider revising your feedback. But either way, I want you to be satisfied.
Please let me know how I can help.
Thanks,
[Your Name]
```
**Why This Works:**
- Public response shows professionalism to other buyers
- Private message opens door to resolution
- No accusations or defensiveness
- Focuses on making it right
---
## MESSAGE TEMPLATES BY SITUATION
### Quick Reference Table:
| Situation | Tone | Key Elements |
|-----------|------|-------------|
| Availability inquiry | Friendly, helpful | Confirm + add value + offer help |
| Price negotiation | Firm but polite | Justify price or counter-offer |
| Condition questions | Honest, detailed | Organized breakdown, offer photos |
| Shipping confirmation | Proactive, clear | Tracking + carrier + ETA |
| Delivery follow-up | Warm, appreciative | Check-in + offer help + ask feedback |
| Item not received | Empathetic, solution-focused | Troubleshoot + commit to resolution |
| Not as described | Apologetic, flexible | Options + empower buyer |
| Return request | Professional, no-drama | Clear steps + expectations |
| Negative feedback | Graceful, open | Acknowledge + offer resolution |
---
## RESPONSE TIME BEST PRACTICES
| Priority | Response Time | Situation |
|----------|---------------|----------|
| Urgent | Under 2 hours | Disputes, negative feedback, angry buyers |
| High | Under 12 hours | Pre-sale questions, price negotiations |
| Normal | Under 24 hours | Shipping questions, general inquiries |
| Low | Under 48 hours | Feedback requests, follow-ups |
**eBay tracks response time!** Aim for under 24 hours on all messages to maintain Top Rated Seller status.
---
## WORDS TO USE vs AVOID
| Use These | Avoid These |
|-----------|------------|
| "I understand" | "You should have..." |
| "Let me help" | "That is not my fault" |
| "Here are your options" | "You need to..." |
| "I want to make this right" | "Per my listing..." |
| "Thanks for your patience" | "I already told you..." |
| "Happy to answer questions" | "Read the description" |Loading workflow...
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