65 Online Shoppers Who Had ALL The Audacity
Online resell has brought out the worst in some people.
With the onset of the global pandemic, online shopping and the second-hand market have flourished. Along with the amount of eager buyers shooting their shot and low-balling online sellers is as absurd as some of their offers: $5,000 for a like-new Steinway piano (which retails upwards of $35,000), and $0 (yes, zero dollars, nothing, free plz) for an iPhone.
Alas, living in the age of the Internet, we’re able to share these experiences with the world. These specific interactions live in immortality on a subreddit called r/ChoosingBeggars.
Here, users share collections of screenshots, pictures, or stories of people who are being way too picky when begging for things, and it has tons of them. We’ve collected some of the more popular ones for your enjoyment.
It’s extremely likely that we are now seeing more “Choosing Beggars” on the Internet than ever. For example, In Spain, 60 percent of shoppers shared that they favor buying used products and giving them a second life.
These products frequently include clothes, furniture, and any other items that can be reused, recycled, and upcycled. The most popular products sold last year were linked to the new life we find ourselves in, with home office furniture, pre-owned computer monitors, exercise bikes and consoles seeing a 23 percent rise in sales.
According to experts this trend is only going to continue to grow
What's more, experts estimate that the second-hand market, especially with clothing, will continue to grow in the upcoming years as well. Farnoosh Torabi, financial expert, notes, “The resale market is not just a trend; it represents a significant shift in consumer behavior towards sustainability and financial savvy.”
“We are witnessing a pivotal moment in retail where sustainability is becoming a priority for consumers, and businesses are adapting accordingly,” says Dr. Daniel Goleman, emotional intelligence expert. “This transformation is driven by the intersection of consumer demand and innovative business practices.”
“The rise of resale is akin to the evolution we’ve seen in other industries, such as renewable energy,” adds James Clear, author. “By highlighting the benefits of resale, we can inspire further collaboration and action across the retail landscape.”
Who's time was really wasted here?
reddit.comNo matter how much you will it, if it's gone, it's gone.
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Maybe they didn't realize how picky they really are.
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The Psychology of Online Shopping
The rise of online shopping has transformed consumer behavior in remarkable ways. Research in behavioral economics suggests that the anonymity of online shopping can lead to impulsive purchases, driven by emotional states such as excitement or anxiety.
Dr. Dan Ariely’s studies on decision-making highlight how environmental cues can significantly influence consumer choices, often leading to unexpected outcomes.
Understanding these psychological factors is crucial for navigating the complexities of online shopping.
Dreams can't pay the bills.
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Well, that took an unexpected turn, to Sears, nonetheless.
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Sometimes no response is the best response.
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Interestingly, the phenomenon of 'retail therapy' illustrates how shopping can serve as a coping mechanism for stress. Research shows that engaging in shopping can temporarily elevate mood, providing a brief escape from negative emotions.
However, this can lead to a cycle of compulsive shopping if not managed effectively, underscoring the need for awareness and self-regulation.
Oh, the venom when they don't get their way.
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Taking lowballing to a whole new low.
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We live in a capitalist society. Everything costs money.
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The Role of Social Media in Consumer Behavior
Social media platforms play a significant role in shaping consumer behavior. Studies indicate that exposure to curated lifestyles on platforms like Instagram can lead to increased desire for material goods, often exacerbating feelings of inadequacy.
Dr. Jean Twenge’s research on social comparison theory suggests that individuals may feel pressured to keep up with others, leading to impulsive online purchases in an attempt to match perceived social status.
Does this buyer really believe they made a reasonable offer?
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Just do it yourself, then.
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Do you take requests?
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Moreover, online shopping environments are often designed to maximize impulse buying. Research in marketing psychology suggests that features such as limited-time offers and easy checkout processes can create a sense of urgency that drives consumers to make quick decisions.
Understanding these tactics can empower consumers to make more informed choices and resist impulse buying.
Not driving anything good today.
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That's a sour lemon.
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Tough choice.
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Strategies for Responsible Online Shopping
To promote responsible online shopping, individuals should practice mindfulness and self-awareness. Setting budgets and creating shopping lists can help mitigate impulsive spending.
Additionally, taking breaks from social media can reduce exposure to triggering content that may lead to unnecessary purchases.
Engaging in reflective practices, such as assessing the motivations behind purchases, can foster healthier shopping habits.
Specialty Pricing!
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Less isn't more in this instance.
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Is this person friends with the buyer who wanted the already sold TV?
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They don't HAVE to do anything.
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"Stan Lee ain't anyone"
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At least they said "Please"
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Please Leave Me Alone - We Are Sleeping
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This interaction of course inspired the viral tiktok by Lubalin.
Getting Schooled
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Thanks, BRAD
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If you are looking to sell some of your stuff online and aren't afraid of encountering some “Choosing Beggars,” there is a plethora of options you can choose from.
As Farnoosh Torabi, a financial expert, notes, "Selling items online can be a lucrative way to declutter and make some extra cash." There are numerous platforms available, including Amazon and eBay, which are among the most popular choices. However, it's important to consider the fees associated with these sites. Torabi adds, "While the fees might seem high, the traffic these platforms attract can significantly increase your chances of a quick sale." If your goal is to sell quickly, eBay or Amazon may indeed be the best options.
Here are the recommended 8 Places to Sell Online per NerdWallet:
For Online Sales and Auctions
1. Amazon
You can sell pretty much anything on Amazon, although selling in some specialized categories requires Amazon approval and an upgraded selling plan. Amazon charges several kinds of fees on items sold, depending on what kind of selling plan you have.
2. eBay
eBay lets you auction and sell a wide range of goods and has a slightly simpler fee structure than Amazon. For most items, you pay eBay 10% of the final sale price of the item, which includes shipping costs but not taxes. If you post more than 50 items in a month, eBay starts charging you 30 cents per listing over 50.
3. Bonanza
Bonanza sells a range of products similar to Amazon and eBay. It charges fees based on the sale price of your item, plus any amount of the shipping cost over $10. So if you sold an item for $20 and shipped it for $13, your fee would be based on a price of $23. Bonanza charges you 3.5% of this price; in our example, you’d pay about 80 cents. There's a minimum fee of 50 cents per item.
For local sales:
4. Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, Letgo
These websites and apps don’t always take a cut of your sales, but you’re responsible for connecting with your buyer, meeting up in person and making the exchange. It's definitely a different style than the online auctions and sales. If you're not comfortable handling all the logistics yourself and then meeting up with a stranger, you should probably stick to online only.
Depending on what you're selling, you can arrange to meet your buyer in a public place (many local police stations offer a "safe haven" for such sales) or have a friend hang around while you make the sale. The simplicity here is the key: no packing, shipping or fees, just cash in your hand. But unlike many online-only sales sites, these marketplaces don't have any guarantees or protections if your buyer turns out to be a flake.
Here you’re the most likely to run into the Choosiest Beggars.
Clothes, vintage and crafts
5. Poshmark
Poshmark is an online sales and social network hybrid for men's, women's and children's clothing, as well as other goods. Its fee structure is simple: For all sales under $15, you'll be charged a $2.95 fee; for anything $15 or more, the fee is 20%. Poshmark charges your buyer $7.11 for expedited shipping, so you just print out a prepaid shipping label, box up your clothing and send it off.
6. Ruby Lane
To post up to 50 items for sale on Ruby Lane, you’ll have to pay a $54 monthly maintenance fee. List more than that, and tack on anywhere from a penny to 30 cents per item. Ruby Lane also charges a service fee of 6.7% of the total purchase. (See a more detailed fee schedule here.)
7. Etsy
If you're interested in selling your handmade arts and crafts or vintage collectibles, Etsy is where it's at. You pay 20 cents to list an item and then a 5% transaction fee on the sale price of the item, not including shipping. If you use Etsy Payments to process your payment, you'll be charged an additional 3% plus 25 cents.
And last, but not least, for selling your electronics:
8. Swappa, Glyde, Gazelle
These sites aren't so much marketplaces as resellers. They give you a quote on your smartphone, laptop or tablet, and then you send it to them.
What do you mean no delivery on free items?
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A gift can be a nice gesture, but this buyer didn't come off too nice.
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Half off $0
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Why do they always resort to name calling?
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Reading comprehension can go a long way.
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year investment.
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Holy, yikes!
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Baby crocodile COULD be useful
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Is customer service a thing outside retail?
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You certainly put in an effort, Thelma
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You're welcome!
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She may not have eyebrows, but she's got a fridge.
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Shipping costs money, ya'll
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"I'll see you today." Will you, though?
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No, I don't think there's still a chance.
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Seller edited out the name, but not the crazy.
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Yeah, but is it negotiable?
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Pretty sure that's VERY ILLEGAL WTF KID
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First come, first serve
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Terrible negotiators everywhere.
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Thank goodness for this buyer.
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No deliveries means no deliveries.
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A two month old issue isn't the sellers responsibility though
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It's basically like selling to yourself, right?
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How about you donate them instead?
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Bravo to this seller not even getting out of their car!
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Their priorities don't seem to be in order here...
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"Because I don't want to" is completely reasonable.
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Dang, missed out.
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Cool story, bro
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Well, that escalated quickly.
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Just yikes.
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If you can't afford something, don't blame the seller.
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Maybe DON'T make a trip without confirmation?
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Trying to trade up
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Who raised such entitled people?
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Burt Macklin, is that you?
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I wouldn't give my address either
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Buyer wanted money for a free item?!
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Maybe talk to your partner before making an offer?
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Special Bonus: Beggar Seller
At least this seller was somewhat polite about the request, but still, the audacity!
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Keep all this in mind if you ever decide to post an ad on any of these websites.
In this day and age, it’s a matter of “When”, not “If,” you encounter a buyer with the outrageous audacity as those featured here.
So when you do, be sure to screenshot the interaction to submit to r/ChoosingBeggars, because sometimes sharing is the best recourse. If you can't get a sale, you can at least share a laugh.
Psychological Analysis
The behaviors observed in online shopping reflect deeper psychological patterns related to impulse control and emotional regulation. Many individuals turn to shopping as a way to cope with stress or anxiety, which can complicate their relationship with consumerism.
Encouraging awareness and mindful practices can help individuals develop healthier shopping habits.
Analysis generated by AI
Analysis & Alternative Approaches
In conclusion, understanding the psychological dynamics of online shopping can help individuals navigate their purchasing behaviors more effectively. By recognizing the emotional triggers and social influences at play, consumers can make more intentional choices.
Promoting mindful shopping practices can lead to greater financial well-being and overall satisfaction.
