Best Practices for Selling on Craigslist: What Should We Consider?

[babywings76]

We are using Craigslist for the first time and just want to know how is it best to deal with people who contact you about your items? We have a dryer for sale and are getting multiple e-mails about it. Do we give people our phone number and address? Only have them come in daylight? Or night time since that's when DH is home? Only do business on driveway? Cash only?

Any advice?

 

[pampchefsarah]

I would give my cell phone number, then try to judge via phone if you want to give them your address. Eventually, you will have to give the address to someone, otherwise how would they pick-up the dryer?

As for allowing them in your house, I guess that depends on where the dryer is being stored until it's picked up. If you have a safe, covered place outside (ie storage shed or carport), then there's no reason they would need to come in your house. If it has to stay inside, though, and you're uneasy having strangers come in the house, schedule the pick-up for a time you can both be home, or when a neighbor or friend is available to come over and help (a dryer, after all, IS heavy, and would probably need more than a couple of people to get it out and loaded safely).

 

[Monty060609]

I have done a ton of business on craigslist, both buying and selling. I have had people come to my house and I have gone to other peoples house. If they are coming to mine, I either do it in the day time or when hubby is home. If I am going to them, I tell someone that I'm going.
I usually try to do most of the business by email, but I hate the phone. I don't give them my address until I am sure they are interested. I'll give out my cell number, that's my only number.
And always cash only.

 

[ShellBeach]

My husband has sold some things on craigslist. First contacts were email, then phone, then set appointment to come to our house and look at it. They had to come inside to look at the items, but no big deal.
If it was me selling, I think I would want my husband here when they came.
Yes, cash only.

 

[3RingChef]

Hi there! Congratulations on using Craigslist for the first time. It can be a great way to sell your items quickly. When it comes to dealing with people who contact you, it's always best to err on the side of caution. Here are a few tips that I have found helpful:1. Only give out your phone number and address to serious buyers. If someone is just asking questions or seems unsure, it's best to keep your personal information private.2. It's always a good idea to meet in a public place, like a coffee shop or shopping center, during daylight hours. This will ensure your safety and make the buyer feel more comfortable as well.3. If you do decide to have them come to your home, make sure to have someone else there with you, especially if your DH is not home. Safety should always be a top priority.4. Doing business in your driveway is a great idea. It allows for easy access to the item and keeps your home and family safe.5. Cash is king when it comes to Craigslist transactions. It's the safest and easiest way to ensure you get paid for your item.I hope these tips help. Best of luck with your sale!