So what is the correct thing to do
I received a deposit on the boat sat for $2k
Spent most of the day with them going over and over everything.
Monday they texted to say that something came up and they can't buy it.
and over the weekend i told two people that called that it was sold

So do i keep the deposit or not?
I did incur some expenses on this already but that is my own fault
( i had a car pick them up and return from the airport, canceled the add in boat trader, that i had just placed )
but that only ads up to $500

He did say that he understood that i would keep the $2k but just wonder if that is really the right thing to do.

Did the "going over everything" include a sea trial (aka free boat ride)? If so....2K is what it cost them!

If you believe it was a real issue, that something came up then refund 1/2 and you will look like a good guy!

I personally would refund everything but my expenses and be on the phone with the previous 2 callers. I'm that type of person though.

i agree, if you believe it was a real issue that came up for them and feel they are sincere i would probably refund all of it less any (real) expenses incurred. I would have to give them credit for first off owning up to it and at least stating that they understand they did place a deposit and that may not be refundable. Having met them I am sure you can judge their character. Just my .02 . . . .



nobody really wants to make 2K that way, i know it would probably bother me

He already wrote the 2K off and doesn't expect anything back,,,,,, I think sending him at least half back would go a long way in the Karma department and still cover your costs and time.

I think coming up with a fair amount for your expenses is the right thing to do. I was once told by a lawyer in NY there is no such thing as a non refundable deposit, you have to prove you gave something for the funds. Many try to fight for the deposit and then only the lawyers win.

I no longer take a deposit on anything, ever. What good is a deposit if you can't spend or keep it? You are blowing off the next buyers for money that isn't even yours yet. Might as well be a piece of paper that says "$2000" on it. Offer me a deposit that is the same as the asking price of said item and I will take it off the market, transfer the papers to you, and hold it for a few weeks until you can pick up YOUR new purchase

Not sure what his excuse is, but have to agree that even though he wrote off the 2K and you spent most of you're Saturday with him along with turning away 2 prospective buyers I would at least return 1/2 just as a good gesture. My opinion and you know what they say about opinions.....

I would deduct your out of pocket expenses; return the balance of the deposit and call the other two possible buyers. If it were me that's what I'd do. They did incur costs for their flights and it doesn't seem like they strung you along for a long time.

Agree on the expenses only. The mental back-n-forth alone of should I/shouldn't I isn't worth the hassle.

Refund it. I was once hosed like this. Expenses are a cost of doing business. However, that's my .02. The car ride should be on them.