Post by F-48 on Apr 20, 2005 20:08:53 GMT -5
Again, as acting Class Secretary, I am wondering about the role we should play in promoting the class, and legitimate builders. One thought that came to mind when posting the editorial on problems with builders - is the possible lack of trust that can grow. Especially when events of contract compliance become an issue.
Everytime, a builder renigs, is late in shipping, changes cost mid-stream, or cancels a long-standing order, the class itself is hurt. We may lose untold numbers of potential buyers if they hear/read about just a single instance. With the internet ripe for "scams", it is difficult to convince a buyer to send money to an unknown builder for an as-yet-to-be-built boat.
Here is a thought - I would like to hear comment, pros, cons, etc.
Given that it in our best interests to have builders and buyers who then become members, and given the issues involved in internet buying .......
What if the Class becomes the "money holder" on behalf of the potential buyer? If a buyer would pay a minimum down-payment, and then the Class would hold a check for the remainder until the product is shipped, perhaps some concern could be eased.
Example - buyer send two checks to class. One check is forwarded to builder "A" upon receipt, the second check is held. Both parties now are aware the money is in safe holding. The buyer is assured no additional money will be lost. The Builder "A" is assured the full payment is in-hand. Once the buyer is shipped the boat and a tracking number provided, the remainder of the funds are released to the builder. It still remains possible that the buyer might lose his initial down-payment, but at least he knows that when promised delivery date is missed, he can get the remainder of the cost of the boat back. I would suggest a down payment no greater than 1/4 the total cost of the boat, or some other agreed upon number.
The builder is still responsible for covering his building costs and meeting a promised time frame. Running out of money, building problems, shortage of supplies, all remain the responsibility of the builder "A". The builder still knows he will receive payment. The buyer knows no one has grabbed all of his money and ran. If the downpayment terms are acceptable, then all the Class would do is hold the check until completion and shipment is made. All disputes would still be between builder and buyer to resolve. Again, this same sort of safe buying is possible by credit card, but the builder must have the ability to accept credit cards.
Regardless of what resolves this issue, the builder is still the person to perform to the terms and conditions of the contract. While there may be many reasons why a contract isn't met - it still is a contract and could be legally enforced. In all cases - a written contract signed by both parties is strongly encouraged. While we may have empathy for a builder and his problems, everyone must realize that this is a business transaction. Even bankruptcy gives some recognition to buyers of products that haven't received thier ordered and paid for goods.
Any other ideas?
Everytime, a builder renigs, is late in shipping, changes cost mid-stream, or cancels a long-standing order, the class itself is hurt. We may lose untold numbers of potential buyers if they hear/read about just a single instance. With the internet ripe for "scams", it is difficult to convince a buyer to send money to an unknown builder for an as-yet-to-be-built boat.
Here is a thought - I would like to hear comment, pros, cons, etc.
Given that it in our best interests to have builders and buyers who then become members, and given the issues involved in internet buying .......
What if the Class becomes the "money holder" on behalf of the potential buyer? If a buyer would pay a minimum down-payment, and then the Class would hold a check for the remainder until the product is shipped, perhaps some concern could be eased.
Example - buyer send two checks to class. One check is forwarded to builder "A" upon receipt, the second check is held. Both parties now are aware the money is in safe holding. The buyer is assured no additional money will be lost. The Builder "A" is assured the full payment is in-hand. Once the buyer is shipped the boat and a tracking number provided, the remainder of the funds are released to the builder. It still remains possible that the buyer might lose his initial down-payment, but at least he knows that when promised delivery date is missed, he can get the remainder of the cost of the boat back. I would suggest a down payment no greater than 1/4 the total cost of the boat, or some other agreed upon number.
The builder is still responsible for covering his building costs and meeting a promised time frame. Running out of money, building problems, shortage of supplies, all remain the responsibility of the builder "A". The builder still knows he will receive payment. The buyer knows no one has grabbed all of his money and ran. If the downpayment terms are acceptable, then all the Class would do is hold the check until completion and shipment is made. All disputes would still be between builder and buyer to resolve. Again, this same sort of safe buying is possible by credit card, but the builder must have the ability to accept credit cards.
Regardless of what resolves this issue, the builder is still the person to perform to the terms and conditions of the contract. While there may be many reasons why a contract isn't met - it still is a contract and could be legally enforced. In all cases - a written contract signed by both parties is strongly encouraged. While we may have empathy for a builder and his problems, everyone must realize that this is a business transaction. Even bankruptcy gives some recognition to buyers of products that haven't received thier ordered and paid for goods.
Any other ideas?
