I don't think it can ever hurt to ask, but it often depends on how you ask. I know many dealers who don't really appreciate it when a person says something like "I'll take that off your hands for xxx" and then gives them a lowball price. That isn't asking and comes off like they're doing you a favor. If you ask nicely and someone takes offense, then that's their problem.
I don't know if using the eBay line is always a good ploy either, because they can just as easily tell you to "Go buy it there, then."
A lot also depends on the type of show and what you're buying. If it's a large show where a dealer has a lot invested in tables, travel and hotels, they may not be as inclined to negotiate. Especially if it's an in-demand item. On the other hand, if it's a smaller show where they don't have high costs to cover or if they are selling older items, they may have more room to discount.
Jim
The way I see it - never hurts to ask, the worst they could do is say no. OK, in this case, emotions got involved and in at least one case, feelings seem to be hurt. But I feel that just reflects lack of professionalism on the seller's part. Had it been me, I would likely have simply been a bit more up front and simply said something along the lines of "Sorry, can't do it, that's the lowest I can go." No need for rudeness. I do not feel asking for a lower price - or making a lower offer - is offensive. I *do* feel that EXPECTING a lower price, for whatever reason, is a different matter, such as "Hey, I bought x and y and z from you four years ago, you should give me a better deal on this".
Brad
EMD - Every Model Different
ALCO - Always Leaking Coolant and Oil
CSX - Coal Spilling eXperts
Did he finally sell it to you?
No, you weren't wrong to ask. Up to him to say yes, no, or counter-offer. If he got upset, that is sort of his issue. Might of had something to do with whether or not he was having a good day otherwise.
My take on it is that if I'm not going to be upset if I give someone an offer that he might consider lowball, then I shouldn't be upset if I get a negative reaction. All part of the game.
Have you ever offered someone less money than they are asking at a train show and upset them in the process? I went to a train show in Shakopee MN today to see what I couldn't live without. While browsing, I saw an Athearn RTR Milwaukee Road RS-3. I've seen them on ebay and have considered purchasing one since the Milwaukee Road ran through my town during the same time period as I model. They usually sell for between $70 and $85. This one was priced at $70. I thought hey, why not ask them if they'll take less. You never know, maybe they'll say yes! I took the item to the table where they were ringing people up and asked " would you take $60 cash?" He gave me a dirty look and said, " why would I want to do that? I have to pay sales tax on that too." I said, " I didn't think of the sales tax, how about $60 plus tax?" Another dirty look, a sigh, then " they aren't even making that anymore." Then he pointed to the regular price to let me know that I was already getting a deal. I said "ya, I know, your price is what they sell for on ebay." Well, that sealed the deal! Well, not really, he grabbed the box and set it on the table and looked the other way! Now, I know the price was already fair, but to get angry that someone is offering ten dollars less seems silly to me. Since I'm in retail, when I hear they aren't even making that anymore, that tells me he's had it a while. It's not like I offered half or something. I know they wouldn't pay that much in credit card fees, but it would be close to $3.
Was I wrong in offering a lower amount?