Farmers want one thing, to get rid of their stuff. Fast. For the highest profit. But even better, fast trumps profit.

Never be afraid to open up negotiations with someone. Always /w them if they advertise, or if they have something up that you know you might be able to put up for more, and ask for the same item, even if it’s at a deal already, for less. I’ve probably saved thousands this way. With farmers, you need to be firm. They will negotiate but you need to have a low-reasonable offer in mind. How do you know you’re dealing with a farmer? One, they don’t speak english well, or very abrupt with little tact, straight yes/no answers, and something like this:

farmer: you want [item]? yes?
you: yes, I do
farmer: [item]?
you: yes, I would like that item
farmer: 100g, yes?
you: I will give you 60g
farmer: no reply for a minute
farmer: [item]? yes?
you: yes, 60g
farmer: no, 100g
you: I will go 75g, and that’s it
farmer: 90g, yes?
you: 75g and that’s all
farmer: 85g yes?
you: [now be firm] 75g and I’ll meet you at the ah
farmer: 75g ok
you: ok

Don’t be excited whenever you get a good deal. Two, you started up communication because you saw them advertise their wares in the trade channel. This is by no means foolproof, as there are way more non-farmers advertising than farmers. Three, they’re pushy. Four, they will negotiate. Many non-farmers want the best price possible, even at the sacrifice of a deal. There’s an epic I’m currently bargaining for through mail. It’s being sold for 1500 but I’m asking 1100. He replied that the lowest he’d go is 1300. So I replied that I’ll go 1200. It’s actually an item I want for my priest so I’m kind of cheap that way. I will not go another 100g because the item’s already slightly overpriced, and he may not go down to 1200g even though it will guarantee him a sale. People are stubborn. Non-farmers are stubborn. Farmers negotiate.

Tags: auction house, farmers, People Skills