Secrets to Buying and Selling on Craigslist

When it comes to online classifieds in the U.S. Craigslist is it. Millions of people list there junk stuff on Craigslist. Looking to buy a car for cheap? C-list is the place to go. Looking for an iPhone for half the price? Then, check out the electronics “For sale” section. No where to sleep? Trust me they have couch you can surf. Why pay money to list your items and services in a B&M old school newspaper. Craigslist is completely free and I guarantee you will get more exposure there. Now, I know your probably thinking, “I already use Craigslist and know what it’s all about, tell me the secrets!” Ok Ok Ok here goes.

The greatest thing about Craigslist is that it doesn’t abide by the same rules as a retail B&M store, nor does it abide by the rules of old school newspaper classifieds. Why? You ask… Two reasons because you can haggle with the owner and because communication through email/text is super easy.

Here are the secrets to buying on craigslist.

1. Don’t ever pay what the seller is asking, if they say $100 you offer $50. Worst case scenario they say no, best case scenario they say yes and most of the time they will meet you in the middle. 

2. Let’s say they list an Xbox 360 for $200. When you make your offer say something like this, “Hello, I would like to buy your Xbox 360 would you take $100? I can come pick up right now, where are you located? I have cash in hand.” 

This accomplishes three things, 

• It tells them that they no longer have to wait to sell and deal with all the headaches of dealing with other buyers. 
• That you will go to them and they can stay put in the comfort of their very own home. 
• That you have the cold hard cash in hand ready to give them. 

If they say no then just politely let them know that if they change their mind your offer is still on the table. What this does is let them know that your not caving on their price and your firm on your offer. Let time do its work. You will be surprised on how many people will get back to you and accept your original offer.

Now, lets flip this on its side and talk about the secrets of selling on Craigslist.

1. Don’t list your item for the price you want to sell for, build in some wiggle room, everyone wants to feel like they are getting a deal. 

2. Make sure you are selling on your terms. If they want it delivered ask for more money. If they don’t have cash let them know that is all you accept. 

3. Don’t be unrealistic on the price, if you paid $200 at retail expect to get 50%-60%. Also stay away from ridiculous low ball offers. 

4. Be patient and give it time. Don’t take the first offer wait a couple of days. If your not getting offers after a day lower your price a little. 

I make about $200 a week buying and selling items on craigslist. This can be another great side job for college students and anyone that wants some extra cash. Well, that’s it. Go out there and sell some of your stuff. If you have any questions please comment below. Stay locked on Employment Hack for more great ways to feed the bank.