I’m addicted to gadgets. I buy a new laptop about every 12 months, a new camera every 9 months, a new cell phone every 6 months, and a new bluetooth headset about every 90 days. I haven’t mentioned the video cameras, microphones, e-readers, speaker systems, WiFi routers, printers, scanners, TVs, etc. You can tell where my money goes.
It’s my contention that playing with gadgets is my hobby, and that it’s cheaper than golf. I figure if it’s less expensive than golf and keeps me off the streets, it’s a good thing for everyone involved.
Anyway, now that I’ve gotten that out of the way…
My “hobby” creates a lot of leftover gadgets.
I have piles of stuff that I’m not using anymore.
Of course, some of it finds a second home with my spouse, children, and employees. Many of my people have enough of my leftover hard drives that they could go into the remote file storage business.
At some point, however, it becomes challenging to give the stuff away.
That’s why I’ve recently turned to Craigslist to get rid of this stuff.
I’m not using it for everything. Some things are being donated to local charities. Some things are too obscure to be sold locally and need a national audience (like complicated computer or VOIP switches).
But many things, especially small, common things, are perfect for Craigslist.
It works. I’ve been selling extra cell phones this week.
Here’s what you do:
1. Take a few pictures of your item.
2. Set up an account on Craigslist in your area.
3. Create an ad. Use the pictures and explain the condition of the product. If you’re not sure about price, do some searching on All of Craigs to get some ideas. I tend to offer my item at the low end to move it quickly. I’ve provided my most recent ad below. Take a look at some of the other ads to get a feel for the important details related to your product.
4. Wait for calls. Sometimes you’ll get a call immediately. I sold my iPad in 20 minutes. Sometimes you’ll have to wait. It depends on the demand for the item and your price. The Droid X I sold recently was priced a bit high. It took a week to sell, and I took $25 less than I asked. If you’re willing to wait, you’ll often get your price. Remember, you can always list it again at a lower price.
5. When you have a buyer ready to look at the item, set a meeting spot. I have a Starbucks that I frequent, and I tell the potential buyer what time I’ll be there and how to identify me (bald guy carrying Verizon phone in box). The person looks at the product and decides. I’ve yet to have anyone reject the product after looking because the person has seen pictures and been given an honest description. On some items, I have left the item at the front desk at our office and had the buyer come by the office to look. The problem with that approach is that many of the buyers want to do the transaction in the evening or on the weekend.
6. Accept the cash. Don’t take a check or any other form of payment. I suppose it would be safe to accept PayPal, but I’d rather take cash.
7. Delete the ad from Craigslist.
That’s it. It’s easy, and you can have something sold a few hours from now. I’ve been getting great prices on most items, and selling the gadgets has dramatically reduced the cost of my addiction. It’s also been entertaining and fun selling the stuff. I’ve met some good people and been able to help them buy something they might not have otherwise been able to buy. It’s a win for everyone involved.
One tip (especially if you’re an addict like me): Recently I’ve been saving the original packaging and sticking it in my attic. Buyers seem to really want the original box.
I’ve provided a sample ad below from my most recent item. I sold the phone for $250. I sold an old Blackberry last week for $90. We’re dealing here at Lee’s Leftovers!
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Have you sold anything lately? How did it go?
Droid X Verizon plus Extended Battery – $275 (Cary, NC)
Verizon Droid X with two batteries & Desktop Stand – original battery plus extended battery by Motorola.
Excellent condition. I’ve switched to a different phone.
All original equipment in the box. Includes 32gb memory card. Clean ESN.
Please e-mail with questions or call to pick up 919-931-XXXX.
If the ad is still on Craigslist, the item is available. Cash Only. No PayPal, checks, or money orders.
