Getting Started on Craigslist and 11 Things to Remember

Getting started on Craigslist is easy peasy but your success will depend on how seamlessly you follow the tips below.

Craigslist is a website that lists almost everything you can imagine for sale or looking for in your area. Getting started on Craigslist is easy and open for all.

Craigslist is a useful tool for anyone. Whether you are looking to sell something, buy something or find an apartment to rent Craigslist can be of great use. With that being said there are still rules and guidelines that must be followed to maintain the safety of everyone involved in Craigslist transactions.

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Why Should I Use Craigslist?

Craigslist is a great resource for anyone looking to buy or sell something, find an apartment or roommate, or network for a job opportunity. It can be used by people of all ages and backgrounds and is a great way to connect with others in your area.

There are many reasons to use Craigslist, one of the main reason is because it’s free! There are no fees when posting something on Craigslist so you never have to worry about overspending, plus there are tens of thousands of people using the site every day which means more exposure for what you’re selling or looking for.

You can also sell anything elderly and somewhat large with ease on this website like fridges, furniture etc. You can even find tickets for events posted on Craigslist which makes it great if you want go up against fans who already have tickets and want to find cheap tickets or those who can’t go and give their ticket away.

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How Do I Post on Craigslist?

Posting something on Craigslist is as easy as clicking “post”. If you’re looking to buy something all you have to do is click the category of what you’re interested in purchasing, such as if it’s a cell phone or motorcycle for example, there may be multiple listings under that category so all you have to do now is pick one and start communicating with the seller.

If you’re looking for something like an apartment there is also a variety of options but make sure they meet everything you’re looking for before renting them out. Always ask questions about whatever you’re buying or renting because remember, there are always scams on Craigslist.

What If I’m Selling Something?

When you’re selling something there are a few things you should do to make sure it goes as smoothly as possible. First, try to take good quality pictures of the product from different angles and list all of the details someone would want to know about it. Second, always include your contact information in case the person interested wants to buy from you directly.

Finally, reply quickly to any messages you receive about the product and be polite and professional when doing so. This will help ensure potential buyers have a positive experience with your post.

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What If I’m Buying Something?

If you’re buying something on Craigslist always meet in a public place and bring a friend just like you would any other time. If the price seems too good to be true it probably is and if the seller is acting suspicious that’s a red flag as well, so go with your gut instinct and trust your first instincts about the transaction.

Broker Meetings: Another way people sell things on Craigslist is by meeting at a broker which means they take a cut of what the buyer pays so be sure ask how much before agreeing to anything and make sure you’re okay with those terms.

Website Tips: Craigslist has its own tips for using their website which includes checking out their safety section here . It gives helpful advice such as verifying sellers, meeting in public places and all of the above mentioned.

Craigslist Scammers: Another reason to always be safe when using Craigslist is because there are many scammers on here. Make sure you never send cash or wire money, don’t go first if you’re meeting someone for the first time and always be safe when dealing with anyone else online.

Things to Remember When Using Craigslist for Both Seller and Buyer

Here are 15 things you should always remember when using Craigslist either as a buyer or seller.

1) Meeting in Public – When meeting with someone before buying or selling make sure it will be at an easily accessible, well-lit public place where you feel comfortable and safe enough during your transaction. Make sure this choice is accessible by foot so if anything were to happen no car would have to be involved. Also you do not want to meet at any type of establishment that would require you to purchase something from the seller, such as their home.

2) Bring a Friend – Bringing a friend along with you to any Craigslist meet up is always a good idea for safety reasons. Not only will they be a witness if anything shady were to go down, but they can also help carry any large items you may be buying or selling.

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3) Screening Buyers and Sellers – When meeting someone for the first time it is important to screen them. This can easily be done by asking for some form of identification and cross-referencing that information with what is listed on their Craigslist account. You can also do a quick Google search of their name to see if any negative reviews pop up.

4) Meeting in a Safe Location – As mentioned before, meeting in a public place is always the safest option. If you are selling something, have the buyer come to your home to pick up the item.

5) Checking Item Before Purchase – Always check the item you are buying before purchasing it. This means looking it over for any damage, checking all of the included parts and testing it to make sure it works properly.

6) Bringing Cash – When buying or selling an item always bring cash. This avoids any potential issues with exchanging money and having to deal with checks or money orders.

7) Having Items Shipped – If you are not able to meet up with someone in person to buy or sell an item, have it shipped to them. This is a much safer option than giving out your home address.

8) Bringing a Tape Recorder – If you are feeling unsafe about a meeting, bring a tape recorder to document the conversation.

9) Get contact information – Have the other person’s contact information before meeting up with them. This can be their phone number and email address or just their name and phone number.

10) Taking Photos – In case of any disputes, always take photos of the item you are selling or buying as well as the receipt/bill of sale.

11) Being Aware of Scams – There are many scams that occur on Craigslist, so it is important to be aware of them. Some common scams are when someone asks you to wire money before they will send the product, when they ask for your personal information or when they say they are from out of town and need you to pick up the item for them.

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Why Craigslist is a Good Site for Business Transactions

Transactions are often cheaper on Craigslist than through other sites or methods.
There is a larger audience for goods and services on Craigslist than any other site.
You can find unique items or services that you would not find anywhere else.
Transactions are generally safer on Craigslist than in person or through other online channels.

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