Last time I spoke a little bit about Craigslist and how it is a great resource for buying items for less than the normal retail cost. We did wind up buying a large wooden swingset this past weekend, thanks to Craigslist, and we have purchased several other items in the past this way. We have also sold some items on Craigslist, and it has been pretty worthwhile. Here are more tips for Craigslist, this time will concentrate on using it to get rid of your unwanted items.
Put up good inventory and be honest. While it has been my experience that people will buy practically anything (as evidenced by a gift I once witnessed of a drink dispenser that resembled a little boy answering nature’s call), the better stuff you have, the easier it will be to sell it right? If you wouldn’t take something for free, then there is a good chance that someone won’t want to pay actual money for it.
Barring that, it is important to give as much detail in your listing as possible. Describe the item, including any condition problems, and offer at least one, if not three photos. Many people won’t even click on a posting if they don’t see the little yellow “pic” next to it. There are certain items when you might be able to get away without a picture, such as with a specific video game system or a “40-foot aluminum ladder,” but these items are few.
Be specific about payment. Request cash only, if you want to avoid potential problems. If you are open to bartering, state that, along with items that you would consider in trade. People love to haggle. Unless you put the word “firm,” expect to get offered lower than your list price.
Price your items reasonably. Check out similar ads for a few days (a few weeks is better) to see what the going rate is. If an ad has been up for a long time, then chances are that the item is priced too high (or the person posting the ad forgot to take it down). Don’t overprice, especially on popular items or your listing will be passed by.
You can read more blog posts by Mary Ann Romans here!
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