Craigslist. It’s a love hate for me, and probably everyone else that uses it regularly. Can someone simply explain to me why people frantically email you non stop when you post something, harass the crap out of you for not responding quick enough, email you again because you didn’t respond in the last four and a half minutes, bargain until you knock ten bucks off, confirm three times that they’ll be there and NOT to sell it to anyone else because they just HAVE TO HAVE THOSE DOORS YOU’RE SELLING and then not show up. No call, no text, no email, just not show up. And then two days later respond saying, “oh so sorry, I changed my mind, but thank you anyway!” All happy as a clam. Like WHAT. THE. F.
And don’t even get me started on if you post something for free. It’s like a bunch of effing raccoons that haven’t eaten in ten years. They’re all over you with their eyes bugging out, harassing the shit out of you for not responding quickly enough. Like HEY, how bout don’t email me, the address is in the posting just roll on by and throw it in the back of your friggin car.
Then there are the people who are like oh, could you just leave it on the front porch. Seriously? JUST LEAVE IT ON THE FRONT PORCH. Sure, no problem, ya know what just take it for free, I didn’t want the hundred bucks anyway. Yes, yes I will leave it on the front porch for you because you know why, today is national give my shit to you for free day even though ten other people have already harassed me via email for the same item but you emailed me first.
For the love, if I could give you one piece of Craigslist buying advice, can you just be a respectful buyer? If you aren’t going to show up, you have my email address and phone number, please just tell me so I don’t wait around for you. If you aren’t the first to email me please don’t throw a hissy fit. Move on and know that there will be more end tables in your future on Craigslist. Oh, and for god sakes, is it that hard to make a complete sentence when you’re emailing if an item is still available. Maybe it’s the excitement that got the best of you and you can’t even talk straight because that lamp, well that lamp, is your soul mate? Relax people. It’s used shit. I get just as excited about it, but just relax.
And for some serious advice (although I’m serious about the above), be a smart buyer and seller. Don’t ever meet someone alone, meet in a public place if you feel uncomfortable, and always chat thoroughly with the person before meeting. Trust your gut. And check out this post of mine for tips on buying and selling on Craigslist.
P.S. Read with humor!
