5 Facebook Marketplace Buying Tips You Need To Learn Now
5 Facebook Marketplace Buying Tips You Need To Learn Now
We all work hard for our money and want to find value when making a purchase. Buying something from Wal-Mart or Best Buy is easy; the item is brand new, it comes in a box, and the chances of it working are pretty good. With a retail store purchase, you get a receipt and there is usually some kind of warranty, but there is no bargaining for a better price. That’s where Facebook Marketplace comes in. Facebook Marketplace is an easy, convenient way to buy and sell items in your community. You can browse through listings close to you and find cool things to buy and sell. Here, there is a chance to work out a great deal on something you might not even be able to find at a big retail store anymore. Dropped your phone and need an inexpensive replacement? Facebook Marketplace has you covered. However, when you buy something from Facebook Marketplace there generally is no box, no warranty, no receipt, and you don’t even know if it works. Here are 5 buying tips that will help your purchase be a positive bargain hunting experience.
1. Product
Look at the pictures carefully, making sure they are not stock photos and that you are looking at the actual item. Pay attention to the details showing you the true condition of the item, such as color variances or damage to corners. Read the full description; note the details given about the condition and what accessories come with the item. Sometimes things will not work properly unless they have the correct power adapter or the right audio/video cord. If you feel the description is missing information you would like - such as model or size - make sure to message the seller and get the full details before agreeing to purchase the item. You should also look at other local classified ads or Facebook pages to see what your item is selling for used and make sure you are getting the best deal possible. EBay's completed listings page is a good source to use to find out what items are actually selling for instead of just seeing what people are trying to get for them. Don't be afraid to ask for a receipt of purchase as some warranties are transferable. Lastly, make sure you know how the product works and that you are given the chance to see it working before you buy it.
2. Public place
When you decide to purchase an item on Facebook Marketplace, make sure you meet in a public place. One of the best places to meet is a shopping mall food court; there are usually lots of people around and there are counters for charging your phone or plugging in laptops where you will be able to test the product if need be another great place is a bank lobby; they have cameras and you don't have to carry cash - you can just withdraw the money you need if you decide to buy the item. For high-end pieces, don’t be afraid to meet at your local police station for extra safety. For phones, meeting at the phone provider's retail store so you can make sure the phone is unlocked, working, and not blacklisted is a good idea. Be careful if someone wants to meet up in a parking lot or late at night, and always trust your instincts.
3. Bring a Friend
You should never go alone when you are purchasing something off of Facebook Marketplace. Bring a friend, sibling, or a parent with you to the meet place. Having someone with you is not only safer but will also give you more confidence if you want to negotiate a better price.
4. Paying for the Item
The price should be negotiated and agreed on before you meet and you should bring just enough cash to buy your item. If they ask you to email or wire the money it is probably a scam. For a more expensive purchase, you can always meet at your bank if you don't feel comfortable carrying the cash, withdrawing what you need at that time.
5. Listen to Your Gut.
If you believe the product price is too good to be true, you are probably right. If the details are limited and they don’t want to meet in a public place, you should probably look for another item. Your instincts are there for a reason; don’t be afraid to trust them.
While enjoying the adrenaline rush that kicks in after finding a great second-hand deal, please don't forget that there are risks involved when buying from a private seller. Most people, however, are just trying to get a fair price for their gently used item. These people are friends, colleagues, and family members de-cluttering, spring cleaning, or just making room for a newer product. By being respectful and using common sense, along with this guide, you should be able to enjoy your Facebook Marketplace experience. Happy hunting!
Have you purchased something awesome from Facebook Marketplace, or maybe have a cool story about your Facebook Marketplace experience? Share it with us!