Craigslist is a great way to furnish your new apartment. Many of the items you can find for sale on Craigslist have barely been used, and people are simply moving out of town and need to get rid of them.
There are some great finds on Craigslist, but you need to know a few things before you get started. These tips will help you get the most out of Craigslist so you can furnish your new apartment in style.
Negotiate
On Craigslist, many people will put up an asking price for what they’re trying to sell. In many cases, they won’t budge on the price, but many times, they will. You just have to ask.
If you see something interesting that you’d like to buy, but it’s more than what you’re willing to pay, call up the buyer and negotiate. You may be able to pay less than the listed price.
You may need a truck.
If you’re just purchasing small items for your new apartment, such as lamps, rugs, or pieces of artwork, you may be able to pick up everything you need with just a small car. However, if you’re planning on buying a sofa, a recliner, a dining room table, or anything big and bulky, realize that you’re probably going to need a truck.
In some cases, people selling their furniture on Craigslist will offer to transport it for you, but most of the time, you’re going to have to pick it up yourself if you don’t have a self storage company available. If you don’t have a truck, having a friend who will loan you their truck is ideal. Otherwise, you’ll have to spend some money to rent a truck.
Be patient.
While you probably want to furnish your apartment as soon as possible, Craigslist doesn’t always work that way. Sometimes you may see a variety of things you really want, while other times, you may see nothing. Don’t despair. The great thing about Craigslist is that people are constantly posting things for sale, so if you don’t see anything that calls to you, wait a few hours or a day or so and check it again.
Know what you want and what you don’t want.
It’s important that you realize what you’re willing to buy off Craigslist and what you’re not willing to buy. For example, some people are fine with buying a used sofa, but not a used mattress. You also need to know how far you’re willing to go for a bargain. Will you drive ten miles? Fifteen? What about fifty? It’s important to establish this before you start buying things.
Act quickly.
The thing about Craigslist is that the most popular items that are being sold for a reasonable price are going to go fast. So if you see something you really like, you need to act immediately and call for more information. If you wait, chances are someone else will buy it before you even make the call.
About the author: This article was written by Thomas Benjamin. Thomas has a keen eye for spotting the perfect amenities for any home, at an affordable price.
Credits: Photo courtesy of Mariola Streim.