Alexio read SmartHome's ad in the local newspaper advertising a home communications system for $489. Alexio rushed to the store to buy the system only to be told by the salesperson that the ad was a misprint and the price should have been $849. Alexio gave the salesperson $489 plus sales tax and demanded the system.
A) The ad is a firm offer by the merchant, and the communication system must be sold for $489.
B) Alexio can successfully sue SmartHome for the difference if he buys the system for $849.
C) The store must accept the price stated in the ad, but only if Alexio has a copy of the ad with him.
D) Alexio is merely making an offer to SmartHome to buy the communication system for $489 plus sales tax.

Question

Alexio read SmartHome's ad in the local newspaper advertising a home communications system for $489. Alexio rushed to the store to buy the system only to be told by the salesperson that the ad was a misprint and the price should have been $849. Alexio gave the salesperson $489 plus sales tax and demanded the system.
A) The ad is a firm offer by the merchant, and the communication system must be sold for $489.
B) Alexio can successfully sue SmartHome for the difference if he buys the system for $849.
C) The store must accept the price stated in the ad, but only if Alexio has a copy of the ad with him.
D) Alexio is merely making an offer to SmartHome  to buy the communication system for $489 plus sales tax.

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Advertisements are generally considered invitations to negotiate rather than firm offers, so when Alexio offers the advertised price, he is making an offer to buy at that price, not accepting a firm offer from SmartHome.

Alexio Read SmartHome's Ad in the Local Newspaper Advertising a Home