Craigslist buying tips

[obstinate]

I'm trying to get more into buying used things recently. I'm looking for a stand mixer, some extra shelving/counter space for my kitchen, a new used phone, etc. So I've been trying to get more comfortable with Craigslist. I have started setting up some alerts on things I'm interested in, but I am still looking for the knowledge that's going to help me get those miracle deals that some of my friends tell me about from time to time. I figured nowhere would have savvier CL users than this forum so tell me what you've got? What are your hottest tips for buying well on Craigslist?

[Poundwise]

I wouldn't say these are hot tips, but common sense:
1. Know what a good price for the item would be new and used (say on ebay)
2. Know what the item is worth to YOU. It doesn't matter if it's a $500 vacuum cleaner if you aren't willing to pay more than $50 bucks for something that cleans your floor.
3. When you contact the person, be polite. If you intend to bargain, give them your offer right away, rather than waste their time
4.  Don't commit to buying the item until you have seen and tested the item, unless you are willing to risk a broken item. People get upset if they expect you to buy the item, and then you don't.
5. If they can't meet your offer, consider whether you can go up a few dollars.  Sometimes it's a better idea to just pay a few dollars more and get a good deal, rather than search for weeks to get a "screaming" deal
6. If the item is not as expected, and you would not be happy paying your original offer, you can make a lower offer, with explanation, but be prepared to walk away from the deal. Be friendly and kind throughout the meeting.
7.  The longer your timeframe, the more likely you are to find a good deal.  I've found some beautiful expensive items in good condition for low prices... after searching for years.

Good luck!

[robartsd]

7.  The longer your timeframe, the more likely you are to find a good deal.  I've found some beautiful expensive items in good condition for low prices... after searching for years.

But you have to be ready to act fast to get the deal or someone will beat you to it. Wait as long as needed for a seller willing to meet an offer you're happy with, but be ready to connect with the seller at the seller's earliest convenience to secure the deal. Sellers looking for top price have to do the same - waiting for a buyer willing to pay, then connecting at the buyer's earliest convenience. The best deals go to those who patiently wait for the impatient trading partner.

[grantmeaname]

Accept that posts will have poor descriptions, buyers and sellers alike will flake out of agreed deals, categories will be filled with mid classified and professional ads, and that the whole process will be inconvenient for you. These “transaction costs” are what make craigslist an inefficient market where you can find awesome deals or command an above-market price just by listing things well and clearly. They’re a feature, not a bug.