Forum Moderators: LifeinAsia
The buyer asked a number of questions before we sold the site which we provided information for, and during this time we felt that they did not know anything about running websites however as the site was up for auction and they continued to outbid everyone else it was up to them if they really wanted to buy it.
To cut a long story short they won the auction which went on for 2 weeks, they then had to wait another week to secure the funds - we insisted the transaction was completed through Escrow - transferred the domains and all the files - then they asked us to help set up the site on their server which we politely said OK as a favour we will help - included setting up all of the backend systems for them. They then asked questions such as how do I add a new link to the site if I want to point to another website. After everything was set up then then changed the look of the site and added their own affiliates instead of the ones we had always used.
Anyway a day later the following happens.
They contacted me and said that they are not making any money and how would I like to make some money from them by selling the site for them.
The next day they then said how about you buy the site back at a reduced price from us.
The next day they then started saying how it was the biggest mistake of their life etc and that they wanted us to take it back off of them, and they offered more money.
Anyway it has now got to the stage where they have threatened myself and my family and continue to harass via online and telephone calls throughout the night.
Can anyone offer any advice on how to proceed with this - the buyers are based in the US and we are based in Europe - however they are now saying they will be flying over to get their money back one way or another - with the caveat of saying 'I Think You Know What We Mean'
Their latest threat as of yesterday is a lawsuit saying we have stolen their money.
We sold this site to them in good faith, there were no contracts exchanged whatsoever, the transactions were put through an Escrow domain service, we helped them way over what a site sale would include - setting up their files on their hosts, speaking to their hosts to explain how things should be set-up, helping them open affiliate accounts etc etc..
Any advice would be appreciated, I have alraeady taken copies of our Instant Message conversations with their threats and I am at the stage now of contacting the authorities as this is getting way out of hand.
I wouldn't be too concerned though - chances are he's just being an ass after stupidly buying something he doesn't have a clue to monetise. Presumably he paid a fairly substantial amount for the site? It's unlikely that someone with so little business acumen is doing more than clutching at straws to recoup his perceived losses.
Certainly speak to a lawyer to confirm that the method you used to sell the site (including how it was advertised, etc) was above board (not misleading, etc) and to check up on on other legal issues. It would also be a good idea to discuss the situation with his harassment and threats - even if you don't want to take action against him, it would stand you in good stead to find out your options.
MG
You can start here
[google.com...]
... threatened myself and my family and continue to harass via online and telephone calls throughout the night.... flying over to get their money back one way or another - with the caveat of saying 'I Think You Know What We Mean'
I'd call the police immediately.
a.
