How to handle returns on eBay

Hi I sold an item on ebay recently and it was in perfect condition when I shipped it. The buyer is complainning that a button is broken on the pants. I don't have a return policy so I told the buyer I would accept a return ( just so I could avoid a negative feedback). The thing is that I know the item was in good condition when it was shipped. What if the buyer is just unhappy with the purchase and wants a way out? Also what if they return the pants and they are not in the same condition as I shipped them? If they are not in the same condition can I refuse to give a refund?

Thanks in advance for anyone that can help me.

Your best bet to avoid negative feedback is to just offer the refund and take the loss. Maybe you could have the button replaced and resell them when you get them back. I also find that many times when I offer a refund the buyer is too lazy to send them back and they end up just keeping the item. If you refuse to give someone a refund or exchange your more than likely going to get that dreaded negative feedback.

There's a lot of that going around on ebay nowadays....you offer a refund upon receipt of returned merchandise and the buyer offers to keep the merchandise if you give a partial refund...just another scam.

Just ran into a similar situation. I've been learning about all the other auction sites to shift some items off of ebay until things turn around. I hope they do soon!

Thanks for the help. The buyer actually decided to keep the pants and just glue the button on. I got lucky this time I guess

Most people are honest. Its the dreaded few who screw things up.

My thinking is if they want to return an item just let them but at their cost.