Reserved and Layaway

[GraceTrees]

Does anyone know Etsys policy/instructions for selling something to a buyer on layaway? I just did such a sale the way I've done it for years. I got the initial deposit and she also sent the first payment. There are two more payments due over the next 2-3 months. I put it up in my Reserved and Layaway section stating that it was sold and the next payment was $143.75 and lo and behold... Etsy let someone else buy it for that amount.

I had to contact the new buyer and explain that it was already sold and then issue a refund. Very embarrassing. Now I don't know how to post the listing so that the real buyer will be able to make the next two payments.

I contacted Etsy support but didn't get a definitive answer from either of the two representatives who answered.

Any help will be appreciated.

Thanks

[AutumnHollowStudio]

There is no longer a way to do layaway here and remain in compliance with Etsy seller protection policies / star seller requirements. 

[GraceTrees]

Thank you Melissa! Love your shop. I can't believe there isn't some way to do it without seeming that you are mailing the thing way too late.  🧐

[AntiqueARTGarden]

Write SOLD RESERVED, even Don't Buy in the title and top of the description. Make sure you change your shipping time out weeks for a layaway or you get zinged for shipping late. Also get in touch with the buyer and decide on an exact time she or he can purchase and list it then, Let them know what happened. Good luck!

[GraceTrees]

Thanks Gina,

Great ideas but it looks like they don't give you enough time even if you extend the shipping time.

If I find a good solution I'll post it here. 

[vintageNCtreasures]

Etsy didn't let this person buy that item.
Any item you list for sale can be bought by someone.
You just stated reserved for xxxx. Maybe the person didn't notice this, maybe they didn't read the description?
You had a picture of the item, if you're going to do this, it's best to use a generic picture, with reserved listing on it, don't use the picture of the actual item as the 1st picture.

But there is no reason at all to do layaway on Etsy anymore. 
What happens if the buyer doesn't make all the payments?

The listing that she paid for will show it needs to be shipped and if not then you get dinged for not shipping.
Same with the other payments that will be due, they'll also show not shipped.

If the item is over $50 then can use Klarna to pay or use their credit card or Paypal.
That way you get the full payment and the buyer can make payments to Klarna, the CC, etc. 

[GraceTrees]

Thanks Pat!

That all makes sense. I used to do lots of layaways in the old days and never had a problem but looks like times are a changing'.

[BootifulLabels]

Layaway is unnecessary in this day and age,  Etsy has Klarna in several countries that mean buyers can buy and receive goods immediately, and you get paid right away, with Klarna taking the risk for the payment instalments.  Even if the buyer can't use Klarna, Paypal has Pay in 4, and many credit cards have extended payments as well.

[GraceTrees]

Thanks Bonnie,

Seems like that's the way to go.

I appreciate your help.

[PrairieCrocusStudio · Accepted solution]

Set up custom listings when payment is due. That way, nobody but the intended buyer will see the listing. 

https://help.etsy.com/hc/en-us/articles/115015663107-How-to-Offer-Custom-Items-and-Reserved-Listings... 

[GraceTrees]

Thank you Laurie!

I didn't know about this. I'll read up on it and see if it can work for me.

[PillowDetails · Accepted solution]

I would also suggest Custom Orders, as @PrairieCrocusStudio says, but keep in mind that any of the payments/orders could have Offsite Ad fees (unless you are 100% sure you are opted out)

[GraceTrees]

Thank you Kathie!

Love this forum. So many smart sellers here. I love your pillows!