If eBay removes a listing, do you still have a contract?
eBay removed a listing after I had bid on an item, won it, and paid for it.
"We're sorry to tell you that the item isn't available for purchase anymore. We removed the listing because it likely fell into one of these three categories:
-- The listing doesn't follow eBay guidelines.
-- The item isn't allowed on eBay or can only be listed under certain conditions.
-- The listing contains pictures or words that may have violated copyright or trademark rights.
This is disappointing for everyone, but sometimes it's an action we have to take to protect you as a buyer.
Important: If you won the item and haven't paid for it yet, you don't need to complete the transaction. If you've already paid for the item, we encourage you to contact the seller to get more information about the transaction. If you don't receive the item, your purchase price plus original shipping may be covered by the eBay resolution process:"
Now, I know my bid is a contract with the seller to buy the item at the offered price. What I want to know is, specifically, do I still have a contract with the seller?
The reason I ask is this: If I do, then why would eBay tell me I don't have to pay? And if I don't, why can't the seller just keep my money as a "gift"?
I can't see how the situation can be that I can either pay or not pay, but that if I pay the seller is obligated to give me the item. How can we have half a deal?
Jason: Thanks but that doesn't answer my question.
GeorgeWashington: What obligates him to return it or send me the item? If someone with whom I have no contract PayPal's me money, why can't I just keep it?