So you want to sell on craigslist. But, you're concerned of the risks involved??? Dont want to run into the Craigslist Killer??? I dont blame you. I will teach you how to successfully make a sale on craigslist in this quick and easy step by step guide. I have successfully completed 100's of successful craigslist transactions and will share with you how its done.
Step 1: Create your craigslist account.
You will need a phone number and an email address to set up a good craigslist account. It isnt the only way to post to craigslist but it is easiest to do it with a verified account.
Step 2: Make your Listing.
When making your listings remember this, You dont want to abuse craigslist. Craig does not like it when people spam to his list and has set up many ways to block your posts through ghosting and other methods. Be as descriptive as possible and include pictures that clearly show the item you are selling. This will save you tons of time when people ask to see actual pictures. I dont use my email address as I always got spammed. Use your phone number. A GOOGLE VOICE NUMBER IS BEST.
Step 3: Sit back and wait.
Dont worry. You will get response. Someone out there wants your item and they will find you. So do not get discouraged if your phone is not immediately blowing up with calls and texts.
Step 4: The Blind Date.
You have gotten someone interested. The hook is in. Now what do you do... Set up the meeting (the blind date). Meet somewhere during the day. A public place like a coffee shop, mall or visible parking lot where there are alot of people around. DURING THE DAY IS OFTEN BEST. I have made trips to Inglewood and Compton at Night. I wouldnt recommend it. I never had an issue and the people were always friendly, but My recommendation is during the day at a public place.
Step 5: Be Prepared, Use Protection.
Use your head (the big one on your shoulders that is). Think it through. Arrive early to the meeting place. Scope the area out. Park where you can easily leave if you need to. Keep your money in the car except for maybe $20 or less. Dont Dress too flashy and an older car will give you the low profile image that wont attract too much attention to you. Or even better, dont meet near your car. If you feel concerned. Call a friend explain the situation and where you are. Keep them on the phone while you do the deal. This way, if anything happens at least someone knows where you are and what happened. NEGOTIATING: Always try to be $40-$50 or more than the least amount of money you will accept before going to meet them. This leaves room for negotiating on the spot.
Step 6: Meeting your Potential Match.
So you're meeting the potential match of the item you want to sell. Size them up. First impressions are everything. If they stay in their car, be careful. Especially if you are selling items like cellphones. They may try to take it and speed off. Or they may just be nervous. In any case, ask them if they could step out of the car, if not remember to be cautious. If you are selling a cellphone hand them the empty box first. If they flee, this way at least all you lost was the box. Let them look over the item. the best thing to say is a little white lie, "I'm selling this for a friend." That way they cant ask too many questions and will thouroughly look over the item. They may try and haggle you down, so this is why it is good to agree prior to a higher price than the least amount of money you are willing to accept. Once the negotiating is over, AGREE TO A FINAL SALE AGREEMENT. This is the point of craigslist. All sales final, all items sold as-is. It will prevent complications and big headaches later if your buyer gets "buyer's remorse" . It happens so just stand firm and say it was Final Sale.
Follow these steps and you will be just fine. I never had a big issue selling anything on craigslist. You can become good at it. If you can pull of 5-10 sales a day at $50 to $100 profit, imagine the potential possibilities you could have...A decent career or side job working under the overlooking eye of Craig. If you have any questions please post them here and I will gladly give my opinion and advice. Be cautious, Be smart, and make Money.
Good Luck and Have Fun :-)
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