In the context of online classifieds, specifically platforms like Facebook Marketplace, the abbreviation “obo” signifies “or best offer.” This qualifier, appended to an asking price, indicates a seller’s willingness to consider lower bids from prospective buyers. For instance, an item listed at $50 “obo” suggests the seller is open to negotiating a price below the initial $50.
The inclusion of this phrase benefits both sellers and buyers. Sellers attract a wider audience by signaling flexibility in pricing, potentially leading to a quicker sale. Buyers are empowered to propose a price they deem fair, fostering negotiation and potentially securing a better deal. Historically, this type of negotiation has been a common practice in various marketplaces, and its digital adaptation through abbreviations like “obo” maintains this tradition in the online sphere.