Is there any way to make a private listing for only one buyer?

[homesteaders6]

Is there any way to make a private listing for only one buyer? Not the same as ebay's private listing option, where the buyer is anonymous, but a true true private listing?

[chevymontecarlo88]

I'm not aware of a way of doing that. What are you trying to accomplish with the private listing? Are you listing it so no one else will purchase the item before they do or just for anonymity?

[candd205]

I know it doesn't prevent anyone else from buying, but what I do is put the following phrase in the title of the listing "for a special buyer only". Have done it several times. Never had problems with doing it this way. Then I message the buyer right away with the item number, so that they can go in and buy it right away. 

[shipscript · Accepted solution]

@homesteaders6 

There are many different ways to make sure only one designated buyer purchases your listing.

1) It may take a little bit of time for eBay to index a listing and display it in search, so you could mention the buyer's name in the title and simply give the buyer the link to the listing (not just the item number) when you post it (and then hope no one buys it before your buyer gets there). But that is not an entirely bad thing, is it? In general, customized items are easily posted in this manner.

2) Another method is to create a scheduled listing for the future and post it. That will assign an item number. Then work with the buyer to find the best time to actually launch the listing. Either reset the launch time, or remove the schedule and manually launch at the specified time.

3) List the item at an exorbitant price and include the offer feature. Send the buyer the item number and instruct the buyer to make an offer of the agreed upon amount. You can then accept the offer and complete the sale. Probably the easiest method to ensure only your specified buyer purchases.

[albertabrightalberta]

This thread on the same subject gives several options: 

https://community.ebay.com/t5/Selling/Target-Listing-for-a-specific-Buyer/m-p/33386041

[aqeeqsouq]

@homesteaders6 

Best way to do that is by create a "Best offer " listing with high price, then tell your buyer to make the offer that you and him agreed, then accept the offer.

[homesteaders6]

Those are all great ideas, thank you, that helps a lot! 😄

[soh.maryl]

OP wants to sell to one specific bidder.  IMHO, best way is to list the widget for an unbelievably high price with make an offer.  Buyer offers the agreed-upon price, seller accepts the offer and then goes from there.