How to Sell Your Items From Home On Craigslist

Selling your items at home on Craigslist can be incredibly easy. You don't have to be technical or be a master in sales to do so. Any average homeowner could list an item in minutes! Don't forget, most postings are free.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• All you need is a camera, computer, and inventory to sell. You can even borrow a camera and use a public computer.

1. Go to craigslist.com. Click on My Account. If you don't have an account, simply choose the click here to sign up link.

2. Click post to classifieds. Choose the for sale link as a type of posting.

3. Then choose the category of the item you are selling. Make sure you have the right category for buyers who are searching. If you are not sure, check what other sellers have as a category by searching on the site.

4. Click on the link that best describes your area. Note: This is just the area, not your direct town or city. There will be a section for that in the next step.

5. Fill out the basic template. This will include your title, the price, the location, a description, the reply to section, and don't forget to add photos. I would definitely take photos and upload the maximum four allowed. Try to take clear and concise photos. Remember a photo is worth a 1000 words. Once this page is completed, you then click continue. The next page will display a preview of your post. If you are please, then you click continue, and fill in the words for security purposes. You can also edit your posting before and after it is posted. Check out my tips and warnings below, they may be very helpful!

Tips & Warnings

• Research your item before posting it.
• Make sure you write a good title. This will help when people are searching. Be sure to include the make, model, and any important information in the title.
• Be sure to price accordingly. Don't over price too much, it will scare potential buyers away. Be open to negotiation. Check other postings and even other web sites before choosing a price. Be aware of the condition of the item and the current costs.
• Write a good description. I would also copy your title into your description. Also include the model, serial number, and any important information. The more information, the more likely it will sell.
• Be sure to take photos, potential buyers love to see the item.
• Use the anonymize option for email. This way you can screen the serious buyers from the non-serious. When a potential buyer emails you, they don't see your email address unless you respond to the craigslist email sent to your email account. This is good for security purposes. You don't have to respond if you don't want to.
• Once you complete the transaction, I would delete the posting. You can do this by logging into your account, choosing the link, and choose the delete option.
• Check the craigslist help section. It is very helpful and they even have some how to sections.
• Always be courteous while on the phone and in person. It will certainly help for future sales and it makes the transaction go smoothly.
• Don't be afraid to give a phone number for communication. Some buyers may not want to but it is a great way to verify a serious potential buyer.
• Always deal in cash. Be aware checks, money orders, etc. could be fraudulent.
• Never meet people directly at your residence or where you live. I always meet people in public places which having parking lots. I have never had a problem but if I did it would be in front of witnesses. I usually meet at a local grocery store that is close to the nearest highway. It makes it easy for the buyer to just get off and meet me. It also makes me feel safer being in public. You can just simply explain that it is for your safety and mine.
• If you are selling a larger item that cannot be transported, you might have to have the buyer meet at your residence. In that case, I would still meet in the public place first, and then relocate to your residence once you feel comfortable. Always have another person around as a witness when you are completing this transaction. The best thing to do is just introduce the person right off the beginning. Let them know ahead of time that you will have a family member or friend with you during this. That way there is no surprises.
• Always have a cell phone on a ready just in case of emergency. It is best to show this physically on yourself which will prevent any problems.
• Note: I have never had any problems with meeting a person in public. Most of the buyers I meet are very nice people eager to complete a transaction. If I every have a problem, I am prepared.

[trvlarrngr]

on 7/23/2009 Great article on Craigslist. Thanks so much! 5 stars!