What should I ask for when a friend breaks an old vacuum I lent them?
MoneyMy friend messaged, "I dropped the vacuum on the stairs. I'll replace it," then sent a link to a used model for $80.
Mine originally cost $250, five years ago. It still worked well, and I wasn't planning to replace it. The damaged handle has left me without a usable vacuum; I haven't had the damage assessed yet. A new version of the same model is listed at $230.
I felt relieved that she'd offered to put things right, then disappointed by the used replacement. I don't know its condition, and she hasn't checked it in person either. But asking for $230 seems as though I'd be getting a new appliance to replace something with five years of use.
Would you ask her to help arrange an assessment first, look for a comparable used replacement together, or agree on a contribution towards a new one? We're trying to settle it between ourselves. I want a working vacuum back without turning her mistake into either an upgrade for me or an unwanted bargain for her.