My husband and I are currently in the middle of a move and we’re scouring Craigslist for affordable furniture. We’ve upgraded from a small place to a spacious two-bedroom townhouse, so we need more furniture to fill it up. As newlyweds on a budget, fancy furniture is out of the question. That’s where Craigslist comes in.
I’ve noticed many ads on Craigslist are poorly written, which can be a real turn-off if you’re trying to sell something. Here’s a list of tips to help you create a great ad and sell your stuff successfully on Craigslist:
1. Always include photos in your ads. I’ve seen a lot of listings with no pictures, and with so many options available, I’m not going to bother asking for pictures. Saying “pictures upon request” isn’t enough. Take the time to photograph your items to make them more attractive and speed up your sale.
2. Take good-quality photos. Clear the area around the item, use natural light, and ensure the pictures are high-resolution. Good images help potential buyers see if the item fits their needs, saving you from unnecessary questions.
3. Avoid listing your price as “firm.” I usually skip ads from sellers who won’t budge on price because negotiating is a big part of Craigslist. List your item at a slightly higher price to leave room for bargaining.
4. Highlight the item’s unique features. If it’s from a popular brand like Pottery Barn or Crate and Barrel, mention it. Popular brands attract more buyers.
5. Repost your ad often. If your item is popular, reposting daily can keep it visible and near the top of search results, increasing your chances of making a sale.
6. Use keywords effectively. Add keywords at the bottom of your ad so it appears in more search results. For example, if selling a sofa, use terms like ‘brown,’ ‘sectional,’ ‘large,’ and include your city.
7. Respond quickly to potential buyers. Many people contact multiple sellers when looking for an item. The faster you reply, the better your chances of making the sale.
By following these tips, you can make your Craigslist ad more effective and improve your chances of selling your items!