Overpriced Equipment

C

cjrudy

New member
I am going to upgrade soon to a larger tank and have been watching the forums and craigslist for the past few weeks for possible deals. My one conclusion is that everyone overprices their used equipment. If I only have to spend a few dollars more for brand new why would I bother with used. People need to realize they are selling used equipment and they are not going to get 80-90% of what they spent when it was new.

Just my two cents.
 
okaaaay.....

okaaaay.....

specifically what equipment are you looking for?

IME good well cared for equipment holds it's value very well.
For example: even though my calcium reactor is used I would expect to recoup 80- 90% of what a new one would cost if I chose to sell it.
 
Just be patient. It may take months, rather than weeks, to get the deal you're looking for.

In the meantime, posting an "ISO" thread for the equipment you need may help you land a good deal as well. :beer:
 
Most people are willing to take the cash versus getting stuck with stuff they'd never use in any other walk of life. Watch for deals by knowing what you're looking for. Don't be afraid to low-ball without insulting anyone.

Remember, "Desperation is a stinky cologne". Strike while the iron is hot and you'll do ok.
 
I am not necessarily looking for a deal, just decent equipment at a good price. So far the items I have looked at are in bad shape and overpriced. these include a few tanks, lighting and a protein skimmer.

I think I have decided just to buy new when it comes to the tank, thats the one thing I want to be in perfect shape. I am going to order a 90 Gallon RR soon.
 
I do kinda agree with what you are saying though..Marine equipment,no matter how well cared for can look look kinda sad on re-sale..I usually just save and buy new
 
Its kind of amazing how a cone skimmer rarely depreciates to 80%, while a normal body style depreciates to 40-60%.
 
I agree with gary. I also buy most of my stuff used and look to get close to the same price I paid. My powerheads though are probably what I would look for within $100 of what I paid each ($445) but just try to be respectful in offering a counter price and walk away if they won't budge. Kind of like buying a car. Offer a price you think is fair and walk away when they won't come down. Next thing you know they're calling you for a month saying they've come down.
 
used = pre-enjoyed :)

used = pre-enjoyed :)

I like pre-enjoyed stuff:

*my current skimmer is used
*two out of three of my MH ballasts are used
*my sump was a special deal because it's trim was cracked
*my main pump was used
*calcium reactor.. used
*skimmer pump..... used
*my first aquarium was used

what do I now have that was purchased "new"?
*my light hood and aquarium
*Vortech MP40

keep in mind that a stock size 90gallon RR aquarium (new or used) is going to be relatively inexpensive compared to most of the other equipment ;)
 
depends on how old the equipment is too new and they want new price I will buy new.If the stuff is 1yr old and they want 80% ok not 90%
 
For me it's all about the condition of the equipment. If it was obviously well cared for then I'm willing to shell out a bit more for it. Obvious sign of neglect quickly depreciate the value. If it's been in your garage for 5 years and it looks like it then you shouldn't expect premium prices for it.
 
If you are also looking on craigslist. Most of the people selling on there don't know much about the depreciation and are just looking to make money back. (Most but not all) The usual, well I spent $5000 on it so I hope to at least get $4000 back. If you want used stuff I would highly recommend checking through ReefCentral. Everyone here knows each other and if something happens you can have a way to contact them.
 
It is what it is IMO. Everyones has an idea of a fair price for whatever they are selling and they are all usually different from sale to sale. You either pay the price for used or by new. Waiting for a real good deal could take anywhere from months to a year or more.
 
I have found lots of good deals here (they go fast) and have seen many that sit for a while because they are overpriced, however, as may great deals that are to be found on craigslist, I have always found tanks and equipment way over-priced there. I think people on craigslist think about how much this hobby has cost them over the years and try to get it back. Probable ones that have never been on this forum.
 
Gary Majchrzak said:
specifically what equipment are you looking for?

IME good well cared for equipment holds it's value very well.
For example: even though my calcium reactor is used I would expect to recoup 80- 90% of what a new one would cost if I chose to sell it.
Click to expand...

You would expect get 80% to 90% of what a new calcium reactor would cost, for your used calcium reactor, that you just admitted you purchased used? Thats absurd. Remind me to stay away from your FS threads.

That is just not fair to the next guy, whether you know the buyer or not.
 
I will allow this to continue, however some need to check their attitude.
<i><br>Here at Reef Central, we believe that dialogs between participants should be conducted in a friendly and helpful manner. If you disagree with a posting, please express yourself in a way that is conducive to further constructive dialog. Conversely, when you post on any given subject, you must be willing to accept constructive criticism without posting a hostile or inflammatory response. Personal attacks of any kind will not be tolerated. Please work to insure that Reef Central remains a friendly and flame free site where everyone, especially newcomers, can feel free to post questions without fear of being unfairly criticized. Thank you for your cooperation.</i>




And on a non-mod personal note. IMO, prices are 100% a personal choice. If I decide to sell my "uber limited edit elite ninja wizzard tyree kyroptone nachosupreme zoa" for $10000 a polyp it's my call and up to the buyer if they want to make the deal. Same goes for used equipment. Your equipment to sell, your price. If the buyer likes the price, they'll pay it. If you don't agree with the price but want to buy, shoot the seller a RESPECTFUL PM. If it truly is way to high, it just won't sell and isn't anyone's concern but the seller. If you just like to complain, stay away from the keyboard and out of selling/buying threads ;)
 
If it's a well cared for item and maintenance is kept up, the price should be higher than one that was just a set it and forget it piece of equipment. In Gary's case, I would expect nothing less based on his reputation. Many people that list items on Craigslist expect a potential buyer to negotiate the price and will ask for more than they want anticipating the price cut. I don't think anybody is trying to rip somebody off. If they are, then they probably won't sell the piece. If the used price isn't as much of a smokin deal as you expect, you can always buy new.
 
Last edited:
I was not trying to stir the pot with my reply. I have been asked to pay close to new cost for used equipment before and was tring to get my opinion on the subject across.

As far as friendly dialog is concerned, I hope Gary didnt feel like a target in my post, and if so I apologize in advance.
 
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