A few months ago someone told me about Craigslist. We were in the market for a dryer and I didn't want to buy new, so I thought "what the heck", tossed my apprehension aside and googled the Craigslist (CL) for my city. I came away with a dryer that should last for many years for only $50 and a new appreciation for the internet. Since that first purchase I have also bought a very nice pillowtop queen size mattress, box spring and rail, (I know, it sounds gross, but how many of you sleep on motel mattresses and think nothing of it?) a wood bookcase, wood dresser and night stand. My total out of pocket for all of this was $150. Today I just made my first Craigslist sale. I sold some IKEA shelves for $25 - and posted part of my Coke collection just a few minutes ago.
I know Craigslist has had some bad publicity recently with the murder of the young woman who was interviewing for a nanny job, but if you use caution, there is no reason to be afraid of this type of sale. So, here are some tips to make your experience, both selling and buying safe, fun and profitable.
Privacy is important When you post your ad, Craigslist keeps your email address private so when someone responds to your ad, you get the email, but the buyer sees it as coming from CL. Request that those interested or with questions respond via email. No one knows who you are. There is no need to give a phone number or directions to your home or office until there has been email correspondence. If the person is truly interested, they will respond on your terms. When you posted your ad you gave a general area of your location and there is no need to get specific until a sale is agreed upon.
Cash Only Agree on a price before the person comes to pick up the item. Make sure the buyer knows your price is firm and there will be no haggling when they arrive. And make sure the buyer knows you will only take cash. Accept a check from someone you don't know and you may just have given the item away. When buying, take cash. The transaction is then over.
Cell phone When it comes time to give directions, ask the person to call your cell number rather than home. That way you both have a record of the call. If the person gets lost, a quick call can be made to clarify directions.
Take or have someone with you Don't have someone come by to pick up an item or go to pick up an item if you are alone. That just isn't smart and needs no further explanation.
Have the item in the garage If at all possible, move the piece you are selling into the garage or yard. It is never wise to let someone into your home or go into someone's home that you don't know. There is a safety factor and a boundary or protection for you. It sounds far fetched, but you don't want to be accused of a theft of someone's property or even of a sexual impropriety.
Remember, this is basically a business transaction and you most likely will never see this person again. Remember to treat it as such and your CL experience will probably be a success. I know I'm hooked!
Got any tips to add? I welcome your comments.
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