Craigslist Shopping - Part 1

If you talk to me for any amount of time, you'll hear of my slight obsession with Craigslist.  It's usually followed by proudly showing my latest purchase along with the price.  Then, I hear, however, how I am the only one who has any luck.  I'm not sure it's luck - I do think there is a little "know how" to shopping Craigslist and this week I'm going to share a couple of tips.

Patio Set - searched "patio set" for 2 summers.  Paid $200 for the set, but had to clean sap off the chairs.  So worth it; I love, love, love this set!

Know your product - Usually, when I'm searching Craigslist, I have a product in mind that I'm searching.  Whether it is a desk, a table, a chair, or whatever.  I look around for inspiration until I find a piece of furniture that I want, then I go to Craigslist.  This does not mean that I use very specific words to search, though.  It just means to know what you are looking for.  Craigslist can be overwhelming if you go to it blindly. I, also, always do a little research.  I look to see what it (the piece I'm looking for) would be brand new, used, at different stores.  I see what other's asking prices are.  I look at measurements, conditions, reasons for selling.  When I finally email the person to discuss purchasing it, I want to have as much information as possible.  I might be a little overkill, but I have never been in a situation where I wished I didn't know so much

Coffee Table - searched "glass coffee table" after knowing that was the exact style I wanted.  After about 10 emails, I talked the seller down from $75 to $40.

Don't pay full asking price  - you should have done your research, so you should have a price range in mind.  I think most sellers list a price, knowing that people will bargain.  I can never do this on the phone, but certainly through email.  I always ask for about 50% off their asking price.  IF, though, I feel it's a fair price, I'll just ask for a little off.  I have never paid full asking price.  I usually state something in my emails along the lines of having a very strict budget (as everyone who is shopping on Craigslist does) and this is what I'm willing to pay.  I can pay cash and can be very prompt about picking it up.  I've had sellers say no, I've had sellers make a counter offer, but it doesn't hurt to ask.

Do I still have you?  I've got a little more - come back tomorrow!