Guide to Staying Safe while Selling on Craigslist

Whenever I talk to someone about Craigslist who hasn't ever used the site before, I'm often asked, "Isn't Craigslist dangerous???"

I always tell them "Well, it's about as dangerous as crossing the street... it can be if your eyes are closed."

1.) Talk to the person on the phone before agreeing to meet. 
The initial contact that someone sends you on Craigslist is via e-mail, but make sure you speak to them on the phone before setting up a meeting. Let's say you get an e-mail like this:





I would reply with something like this:

Hey Mike,

I'm in "Insert Your City". What's a good number to reach you at so we can set up a time?

Thanks,
Your name

 This type of reply accomplishes a two-fold purpose:

1. You get a chance to talk to the person on the phone before deciding whether to give out any personal information or meet with them. 
2.  You're able to establish the seriousness of the prospective buyer, or to determine if they're a "tire kicker" or "low baller". These two types of people will waste your time, and are to be avoided at all costs. Refer to the Craigslist Glossary for definitions of these terms. 

In the few years I've been buying and selling on Craigslist, there has only been one instance when I had an "iffy" feeling about a person i had spoken with on the phone. I gave them a polite excuse, saved their number as "DO NOT ANSWER" in my cell phone, and sold to someone else.




When dealing on Craigslist,it's good practice to follow the advice of the Iron Chancellor:

"Be polite; write diplomatically; even in a declaration of war one observes the rules of politeness."

2.) If possible, meet in a public place during daylight hours

• Places like Starbucks are great because they're nearly always crowded. Also, If the item you're selling is an iPod or something else that needs to be tested, this is a great way for you to sit down with the buyer to do so.

• As the seller, you choose the location. Feel free to choose somewhere convenient. Delivery or driving long distances should be out of the question.

"But what if i'm selling a large item?"

If you're selling something large like a piece of furniture or an appliance, making meeting in a public place impractical, here are some good practices:

1. Make sure that the buyer has somebody able-bodied with them to help load the item and adequate transportation ( usually a truck or Large SUV). Buyers usually expect to have to load large items themselves.
2. Have someone else at home with you when the buyer comes.
3. If possible, move the item to the garage or a front room for a smooth pickup.

 In any selling situation, a good way to feel more at ease is to have a friend or family member with you. Remember, you'll be making some extra cash, so a bribe of ice cream or beer will usually do the trick!