Originally Posted by
RayG
I've had similar experiences and it has really been difficult to please all those concerned when these things happen. One problem was listing in multiple forums - someone may PM with intent to buy, but subsequently, someone hits the BIN button here. In that instance, I had refunded or rejected the BIN payment in favor of the first PM.
Two things to note about that example are:
1. The BIN is not automatic, and is subject to acceptance by the seller.
2. The first PM was not an inquiry or statement of interest, but an unconditional "I'll take it."
I have also rejected a BIN from an international buyer when my listing stated CONUS only.
What I have learned is, in an effort to be fair, I include a statement in my ads saying that the first unconditional "I'll take it" AND timely payment gets the item. That way, there is a clear order of preference for buyer > someone interested but may not buy depending on the answers to questions. Timely payment is also important, as others will say they will buy, then hold the payment as they think about it, research the item or even shop around.
Bottom line is, most of us don't sell razors as a business. Most sell because they need the money, to fund their own purchase or other reasons. We need to be fair to the seller, too, who only wants a quick, clean sale. I think the BIN is fine the way it is, and besides, the seller always has the option to not allow BIN.