Can an auction house changed the terms of purchase after someone has bid on the item?
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Can an auction house changed the terms of purchase after someone has bid on the item?
I spoke with the auction house and verified the terms as they were listed on the invoice: they would allow a certain amount to be paid by credit card and the rest by cash. When I went to pay, the site said they now want an e-check, which I cannot give them. Can they change terms like that? I only bid on it because of the terms they offered.
Asked on December 18, 2011 under Business Law, New York
Answers:
FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 12 years ago | Contributor
The auction house can change the terms of the bid payment after you successfully bid on the item. However, if you have a written receipt from the auction house stating that a certain percentage would be paid by cash and the balance by credit card as to your purchase, you are in good shape to stand your grounds and insist upon making payment under the terms of the written receipt provided you as opposed by e-check.
If the auction house's representative still refuses to honor the terms of your receipt as to the manner of payment, I would speak in person to the owner of the establishment in order to try and resolve the issue you have.
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