What I've Learned from Using Craigslist

I think I’m one of the last few individuals out there that hasn’t really used Craigslist before. Craigslist is free online classified where you can buy, sell, and even find employment in your particular city with ease. I’ve heard from many of my friends who have used the service to sell used items, give items away for free, and even search for employment.

I’ve been very skeptical of using such a service for so long. I was more inclined to just give away my items to friends for free or just throw them out and hope that someone would pick up the items in the back lane or the city would dispose of them for me.

After some spring cleaning last weekend I decided to finally get off my ass and post some items on Craigslist and sell them.

The process of creating an add is fairly easy (just remember to be in the correct city before posting an item). You specify an area where the item belongs in, add a title, quote your price, add your location, and create your ad.

For best results state the price again in your description.  Give as much details on the items as possible, how old it is, are there any scratches or dents, model numbers (if selling electronics), what is included, and any other information you see fit to give. I highly recommend taking photos of the items and posting them up as well. Craigslist allows you to post up to 6 photos and this will help move your item quickly.

The neat thing about Craigslist is that when people reply to your add, they don’t see your email address, Craig’s creates an separate email address for the item and forwards you any email inquires directly to you. Once you do reply to any inquires your email is scene.

Be careful of people replying to your ad and wanting you to ship it to them. They offer to pay you by credit card, money transfer or paypal. Stay clear away from them. I deal only in cash transactions to save any problems. You can also find some information on how to protect yourself from scams on their site.

Most likely your potential buyer would like to see the item, and depending on the item and size you might want to set up a meeting somewhere to have them inspect it. Make sure you bring everything that was included in your description and in your photos as most likely this will be the transaction point. If you are firm on your price, state that to them before you meet. Some buyers will want to deal and depending on you, you might want to do so. I suggest if you are willing to negotiate on price, don’t post your lowest price first, but have a range you are willing to go with.

And above all have fun! You are giving your unused item a new home and avoiding filling up the landfill sites.