I need some advice on the following email exchange:
X: i heard back from someone about the tub. he is very interested wants to meet me there to see it on tuesday afternoon on my way home. we should be there by 4. he was the most serious offer and most interested. it should sell for $1600. if he wants it it should be out this week. i will let you know as soon as i do. please, please let me know you received this. thanks
Me: I want to put an offer in for the tub; I think the kids would get a lot of use of it since we don't have a pool. I have to stretch, but can offer $400 (which would be equivalent to $1200 since I will also not get the 1/2 profit from a sale). Looks like the season of the "staycation." Please let me know by tomorrow, so I know if someone else would be coming by the house.
X: i understand that the kids may use it, but i am also sure it would only be a couple of times. there is no room to swim they will get bored very quickly. also, if i have an offer on the table for 1600 why would 400 be resonable. you say you wouldn't be getting half the profit but you would be getting the tub. if this guy calls me we will be there tomorrow afternoon.
Me: So, you are looking at getting $800, instead of $400, and not letting the kids have the use of it. You can't be "sure" that the kids would only use it a few times - I'm not getting the lake pass this year. Both of them have said that they would use it - ask them. What do you think would be a reasonable offer?
This all after him saying he was listing the $13,000-original-cost hot tub for $5000. This other guy certainly talked him down quite a bit. Can't believe I am haggling with the kids' FATHER for something that the kids would use! So bizarre that he would even take money for it, since it is for them. (I tried to be good and not mention this fact). I think he has taken up permanent residence on the other planet.
So, I am out $1200 but get to keep the tub. Or, I get $800, and no tub.
