selling computer on Craigslist/Kijiji should I let people demo the computer in house?

[Unicron]

Anyone here sell a computer on those sites or wherever and allow this complete stranger(s) into the house to test out the computer?

If this is not stupid i might setup my computer in one of the crappy rooms in the house where I live so they can't see my other sweet stuff in the house then come at night and murder me

[champ91]

I wouldn't recommend it. I've heard of cases where some people robbing the sellers on the spot.

I never trade from the home. I only do it during the day and in well-seen public area.

[Daijoubu]

Well if he doesn't have trust in you (working goods) then why should you trust him?

I've sold plenty stuffs, shipped or picked up without having the buyer test the item first.

And what's weird is that those who looks shaddy will want to test out/play with it a little while.

But now that I think about it... to protect oneself from, say a buyer stating that the item came damaged or DOA. In that case, you may want to have the item inspected so if he breaks it, he can't put the blame on you...

hmmm

[recordman]

If you were to sell something big that the potential buyer would like to see working, how would you do it? I've sold/bought many things for 20+ years and have had complete strangers show up at my house. Never have I had an issue. Maybe I'm just lucky. I try to not do business at my house, but sometimes it's unavoidable for the deal to be completed. As for being robbed, that could happen anywhere.

I wouldn't recommend it. I've heard of cases where some people robbing the sellers on the spot.

I never trade from the home. I only do it during the day and in well-seen public area.

[Sgt_Strider]

For privacy reasons, I don't make any transactions from home. I also don't let buyers test out my stuff. I don't operate a retail store like FS and buyers should do their research before they make any purchases.

[izzyzz]

I've sold quite a few items via kijiji/craigslist -- bicycles, monitors, speaker systems, guitars... A couple of times people wanted to see things in operation before buying which is understandable with things like TVs, speakers, etc.. Never had any issues.

Anything can happen of course, but you have to take basic precautions. Often, even the tone or grammar/spelling in the email msg can tell a lot about the person you're dealing with. It's also a good idea to have a telephone conversation before meeting them. Again, the way a person talks can tell you a lot. Small things, but they do make a difference.

[Unicron]

I've sold quite a few items via kijiji/craigslist -- bicycles, monitors, speaker systems, guitars... A couple of times people wanted to see things in operation before buying which is understandable with things like TVs, speakers, etc.. Never had any issues.

Anything can happen of course, but you have to take basic precautions. Often, even the tone or grammar/spelling in the email msg can tell a lot about the person you're dealing with. It's also a good idea to have a telephone conversation before meeting them. Again, the way a person talks can tell you a lot. Small things, but they do make a difference.

Tone of voice on phone

My voice sucks, i sound so young even though I'm not that young but I spoke to what sounded like a Grandmother but a savvy Grandmother who probably buys/sells lots and just because my voice sounded young I could tell she was like Untrusting of me right off the bat and I when I spoke about the specs and things like that she sort of said yeah but in that ignoring sort of way of agreeing but she wanted to tell me to shutup

She also asked for a price drop and I was like sorry I can't drop it any lower and then she just hung up

[Sgt_Strider]

Tone of voice on phone

My voice sucks, i sound so young even though I'm not that young but I spoke to what sounded like a Grandmother but a savvy Grandmother who probably buys/sells lots and just because my voice sounded young I could tell she was like Untrusting of me right off the bat and I when I spoke about the specs and things like that she sort of said yeah but in that ignoring sort of way of agreeing but she wanted to tell me to shutup

She also asked for a price drop and I was like sorry I can't drop it any lower and then she just hung up

Wait for a new buyer to approach you then. Also, I don't do negotiations over the phone. If the buyer tries to negotiate the price over the phone even though we have already settled the issue, I'll hang up on them.

[BooR4dL3y]

I know I wouldn't buy someone's used computer without testing it out to make sure it's running as promised.

Like others have said, work out the deal over the phone first - get their phone number, agree on the price. When that's done, setup a meeting time and place to complete the deal.

If you're worried about potential buyers scoping out your other household goods then move what you're selling into another room - maybe even setup a temporary table in your front entrance way. There's nothing wrong with having everything ready for removal if the deal goes through.

If you're still worried, then have a couple friends with you. Less likely that the buyer will try and do something while there are other people around.

[Unicron]

For privacy reasons, I don't make any transactions from home. I also don't let buyers test out my stuff. I don't operate a retail store like FS and buyers should do their research before they make any purchases.

Should i put in my advertisement

SELLING AS IS

Just wondering because you sell items to people but what happens if they come back and say it doesn't work to you?

[Sgt_Strider]

Should i put in my advertisement

SELLING AS IS

Just wondering because you sell items to people but what happens if they come back and say it doesn't work to you?

I never had that problem before. First, I have a perfect RFD and Heatware record with a long history of trading on RFD. Second, as a seller, you should make sure you're selling to the right person. I probably won't deal with someone that have 0 posts on this forum. When I'm making a transaction in person, they already have my phone number. I'll chat and make sure we're on the same page and there is no misunderstanding before I proceed. I'm very careful in this regard. The last thing I want is for some guy to message me the following day and say something isn't right.

[dragon_drift]

Good question. Maybe you can test it in front of him/her in the garage? and bring a few buddies along too.

[hightech]

I've sold many items on Kijiji/Craigslist, and on RFD. I just meet people and let them try items if applicable (i.e. check out digital camera, headphones, etc.). Components I just go on trust bases.

I'd NEVER EVER have some stranger in my house. For a few $$ it's not worth it.

[jackwest]

It's just a matter of normal social skills and life experience.

I use common sense to let people try out my items. I can size up pretty much anyone. I always meet them at a secure area then move them to my house. I've left people alone with thousands of dollars of gear with no problem.

[MacGyver]

If I'm selling something, I insist that the buyer come to my home with exact change. There's no way I'm going take time out of my busy day to go miles out to some dark parking lot to meet somebody that probably won't show up. And I can't recall a single thing that I've bought via Craigslist/UsedOttawa/Kijiji that I haven't bought at the seller's home.

I sold an old computer once and I was happy to demo that in my foyer where they can't see what else is in my house.

Some people call me crazy, but I've had no issues. And if somebody has my phone number they can do a lookup on 411.ca and find my full name and address anyway! I have nothing to hide, and I pride myself on that kind of openness and honesty.

Frankly I'm more concerned about the possibility of a random home-invasion by thugs.

[Bskll]

If I'm selling something, I insist that the buyer come to my home with exact change. There's no way I'm going take time out of my busy day to go miles out to some dark parking lot to meet somebody that probably won't show up. And I can't recall a single thing that I've bought via Craigslist/UsedOttawa/Kijiji that I haven't bought at the seller's home.

I sold an old computer once and I was happy to demo that in my foyer where they can't see what else is in my house.

Some people call me crazy, but I've had no issues. And if somebody has my phone number they can do a lookup on 411.ca and find my full name and address anyway! I have nothing to hide, and I pride myself on that kind of openness and honesty.

Frankly I'm more concerned about the possibility of a random home-invasion by thugs.

maybe that's because people know you from DSLreports and your ability to ninja their DSL connection :)

[user01]

I wouldn't recommend it. I've heard of cases where some people robbing the sellers on the spot.

I never trade from the home. I only do it during the day and in well-seen public area.

+1, there were news alerting people to be cautious about this so I wouldn't suggest having strangers over. My $0.02... :razz::razz::razz:

[kleptodathief]

ya but make sure u 'hide' the pr0n :cheesygri

[felix]

I find the more experienced buyers usually do not need "testing". Sometimes I'm too nice and let anyone purchase my goods, but I do prefer the more experienced buyers just to avoid the hassle (and so that there would be a greater chance of them leaving a positive feedback rating which is important for me).

[loybond]

If you're uncomfortable with it, then don't do it. There is a slight risk involved, and while I haven't had any issues, you're making me think twice!

[Jon Lai]

Why's this thread American?

Anyways, I've never allowed anyone to meet at my house for any of the transactions I've done. It was always Timmies. I don't see why I would personally differ for a computer. ;)

[bm_14]

If your willing to sell something on any site you must be willing to show the object as operating as stated. If that means showing it in your home then yes you should. Personally I always try to get a home number in case I buy something and have a question about it's operation and such. As a seller the buyer has a need to trust you, since they are the one's assuming the element of risk in the transaction. So the short answer is if you expect to be trusted then you must show trust as well. Anyone failing to demonstate otherwise shouldn't be selling on these sites....:confused:

[JWL]

For privacy reasons, I don't make any transactions from home. I also don't let buyers test out my stuff. I don't operate a retail store like FS and buyers should do their research before they make any purchases.

How can they research whether a PC you're selling is in good working order?

Thread belongs in Shopping, not Computers.

[Sgt_Strider]

How can they research whether a PC you're selling is in good working order?

Thread belongs in Shopping, not Computers.

If they really don't trust me, then the best that I'll do is to take a picture. Besides, I've never had anyone questioning my integrity. I have a perfect RFD and Heatware record with plenty of feedbacks. If they still don't trust me, then I won't bother dealing with the guy. It's not worth my time and the hassle.

[kcorscadden]

If your willing to sell something on any site you must be willing to show the object as operating as stated. If that means showing it in your home then yes you should. Personally I always try to get a home number in case I buy something and have a question about it's operation and such. As a seller the buyer has a need to trust you, since they are the one's assuming the element of risk in the transaction. So the short answer is if you expect to be trusted then you must show trust as well. Anyone failing to demonstate otherwise shouldn't be selling on these sites....:confused:

+1

The having buyers come over to your house is a tad concerning, but it potentially comes with the territory.

As for those who say "I don't let ppl test my stuff before buying", ummm excuse me? Do you go and buy a used car without taking it for a test drive? Probably not, so the buyer has every right to test that product that you are selling and if you don't like it, tough. There is no difference between buying a car and an electronic item like a tv or computer from a buying experience other than the cost to buy it.

So you expect the buyer to take your "word" for it that it is working? The buyer maybe has spoken to you a hand full of times through email or phone. They don't know you personally. They don't know if you are trust worthy and even if you are, the buyer isn't thinking like that. They are thinking that you are in "sales mode" and try to discard your junk that isn't good enough for you any more and trying to do it as fast as possible. Testing the product slows down the transaction for the seller, but it is a necessary step for the buyer.

You can do all the research on say a computer. You can read the reviews on the model that is being offered, shop around, etc but how do I know if the computer even turns on or has a major virus on it if I don't test it?

Testing an item comes with the territory and if you sellers aren't willing to let the buyer test the item before buying, then good luck selling your item as most buyers will walk. I know I would depending on the item.

[nfuz]

Put yourself in the buyers place.

Would you buy something from a guy without testing it?

I recently made my first sale on kijiji (sold an external drive... 2 to go!)

I had it all packaged and everything, he came in, gave me the cash... "mind if I test it?"

I had the computer I'm trying to sell also located on the ground floor, so took him to that comp, booted it, plugged it in.

He said, can you copy a file over? so I made a txt file and copied it over... "can you rename/delete it?" So I did that...

He said great, and walked away... took a whole 5min.

And that was just for a HD, i fully expect the guy who wants to buy my comp below to do a more thorough look/test rather than take my word for it that everythings fine.... I sure wouldn't trust a complete stranger when buying something USED like that... so I don't expect my potential buyers to trust me in a way I wouldn't trust them.

So to shortly answer your question: If you want to actually finish the sale, definately let them demo the computer...

[Rocky03]

+1

The having buyers come over to your house is a tad concerning, but it potentially comes with the territory.

As for those who say "I don't let ppl test my stuff before buying", ummm excuse me? Do you go and buy a used car without taking it for a test drive? Probably not, so the buyer has every right to test that product that you are selling and if you don't like it, tough. There is no difference between buying a car and an electronic item like a tv or computer from a buying experience other than the cost to buy it.

So you expect the buyer to take your "word" for it that it is working? The buyer maybe has spoken to you a hand full of times through email or phone. They don't know you personally. They don't know if you are trust worthy and even if you are, the buyer isn't thinking like that. They are thinking that you are in "sales mode" and try to discard your junk that isn't good enough for you any more and trying to do it as fast as possible. Testing the product slows down the transaction for the seller, but it is a necessary step for the buyer.

You can do all the research on say a computer. You can read the reviews on the model that is being offered, shop around, etc but how do I know if the computer even turns on or has a major virus on it if I don't test it?

Testing an item comes with the territory and if you sellers aren't willing to let the buyer test the item before buying, then good luck selling your item as most buyers will walk. I know I would depending on the item.

+2. You have to be an idoit to buy something just by taking the sellers word! Used items are as-is so you need to test it regardless. Ensure you get the buyers phone number and pass it to someone if you are paranoid.

[Sgt_Strider]

+1

The having buyers come over to your house is a tad concerning, but it potentially comes with the territory.

As for those who say "I don't let ppl test my stuff before buying", ummm excuse me? Do you go and buy a used car without taking it for a test drive? Probably not, so the buyer has every right to test that product that you are selling and if you don't like it, tough. There is no difference between buying a car and an electronic item like a tv or computer from a buying experience other than the cost to buy it.

So you expect the buyer to take your "word" for it that it is working? The buyer maybe has spoken to you a hand full of times through email or phone. They don't know you personally. They don't know if you are trust worthy and even if you are, the buyer isn't thinking like that. They are thinking that you are in "sales mode" and try to discard your junk that isn't good enough for you any more and trying to do it as fast as possible. Testing the product slows down the transaction for the seller, but it is a necessary step for the buyer.

You can do all the research on say a computer. You can read the reviews on the model that is being offered, shop around, etc but how do I know if the computer even turns on or has a major virus on it if I don't test it?

Testing an item comes with the territory and if you sellers aren't willing to let the buyer test the item before buying, then good luck selling your item as most buyers will walk. I know I would depending on the item.

Most of the stuff that I sell doesn't come anywhere close to the value of a car. Some of the requests that I have got for testing my stuff is more like trying it out to see if they like it. I'm not interested in letting someone try it out and then decide whether they want it or not.

There is a difference between testing something out and letting someone examine the items itself. When I have met the buyer at a designated location, I've always let them examine the product to make sure everything is ok and nothing is missing.

At the end of the day, if there is a difference in opinion on how to proceed things, then I'll try to find a compromise, but if it's not possible, then I won't deal. It's simple and I won't cry if I can't get a transaction to work. No one is forcing the buyer to buy something that they don't want to. If they don't feel comfortable moving forward, then they can always leave.

[nfuz]

There is a difference between testing something out and letting someone examine the items itself. When I have met the buyer at a designated location, I've always let them examine the product to make sure everything is ok and nothing is missing.

This really depends on the product, the thread is about a COMPUTER and not some small product you are selling.

There's lots of products that you simply cant check from physical appearances, tey HAVE to be tested. And with sellers like yourself, who want to meet in a designated location other than your house. the buyer has no way of tracking you back should you scam him, the buyer is taking a huge risk here dealing with you likethis.

You can sell corrupted hard drives with bad sectors, a fried processor, bricked motherboards, dead graphic cards.... those all look fine on the outside, but testing could reveal a completely other side to it.

If the buyers youve rounded up have been gullible enough to buy stuff without testing and having no way to track u down, then thats what they are... gullible!

[spm24]

just wondering if your going to give a demo does that mean your selling the comp with the OS already on it ?

or you planning on just turning it on showing him the bootup/bios and then closing it down .

[Sgt_Strider]

This really depends on the product, the thread is about a COMPUTER and not some small product you are selling.

It seemed like the topic have changed a bit here.

There's lots of products that you simply cant check from physical appearances, tey HAVE to be tested. And with sellers like yourself, who want to meet in a designated location other than your house. the buyer has no way of tracking you back should you scam him, the buyer is taking a huge risk here dealing with you likethis.

I've never sold a whole computer before and I probably would never do so. There are risks for taking a buyer into the home. I'm not the only one that have raised this issue.

You can sell corrupted hard drives with bad sectors, a fried processor, bricked motherboards, dead graphic cards.... those all look fine on the outside, but testing could reveal a completely other side to it.

If the buyers youve rounded up have been gullible enough to buy stuff without testing and having no way to track u down, then thats what they are... gullible!

Just how are you suppose to test a motherboard or a CPU if you're shipping something across the country? If you're that paranoid about things then you shouldn't be buying anything from the BST forums. You mind as well go and buy your stuff from retail stores. If I'm meeting the seller in person, then he will have my cellphone number. This is why we have a feedback system as a way to tell whether the seller is legit or not. I have sold hard drives, motherboards and tons of other components without any problems before. There are always risks involved when you're buying second hand components. You can test out the hard drive at the seller's place all you want, but it can still die on you 48 hours later. With a buyer being as difficult as you, no one will want to sell anything to you.

[nfuz]

just wondering if your going to give a demo does that mean your selling the comp with the OS already on it ?

or you planning on just turning it on showing him the bootup/bios and then closing it down .

There's ways to do a demo with the OS without giving him your licensed OS.

Simply encrypt the bootup drive.

So if he buys the comp on the spot, he has to go home and format it anyways, since he cant access your operating system and your cdkey.

[nfuz]

It seemed like the topic have changed a bit here.



I've never sold a whole computer before and I probably would never do so. There are risks for taking a buyer into the home. I'm not the only one that have raised this issue.



Just how are you suppose to test a motherboard or a CPU if you're shipping something across the country? If you're that paranoid about things then you shouldn't be buying anything from the BST forums. You mind as well go and buy your stuff from retail stores. If I'm meeting the seller in person, then he will have my cellphone number. This is why we have a feedback system as a way to tell whether the seller is legit or not. I have sold hard drives, motherboards and tons of other components without any problems before. There are always risks involved when you're buying second hand components. You can test out the hard drive at the seller's place all you want, but it can still die on you 48 hours later. With a buyer being as difficult as you, no one will want to sell anything to you.

What are you talking about?!

This has nothing to do with shipping, or BST forums, or heatware, ebay, feedback of any kind.

Kijiji and craigslist are meant to be used for LOCAL sales, where there's no shipping. Someones not going to care that youve got a 100% rating on some forum and ebay and heatware, as anyone can claim to be him.

The thread title clearly says selling a COMPUTER on craigslist and kijiji...

meeting some guy at a tim horotns to sell a $20 starbucks card is a whole another ballgame.

When people use the BST forums, or heatware or ebay, THATS when they rely on the feedback because they cant physically be there to test it, so they are basing PAST experiences for that purchase, this isnt the case with kijiji and craigslist, as theres no feedback ratings...

As far as those risks about taking a buyer in your house, well thats fine and thats the sellers mindset... the buyer must be thinking "oh, this guy doesn't want me to find out where he lives, or doesn't want me to test anything... surely a scam".

If youve had good sales like this, then good for you... I personally (and others have raised this issue) wouldnt buy something used, LOCALLY without testing it. Now obviously, if you have a feedback system to back that up... then thats a diff story.

[Sgt_Strider]

What are you talking about?!

This has nothing to do with shipping, or BST forums, or heatware, ebay, feedback of any kind.

Kijiji and craigslist are meant to be used for LOCAL sales, where there's no shipping. Someones not going to care that youve got a 100% rating on some forum and ebay and heatware, as anyone can claim to be him.

I thought we're covering the entire issue of buying and selling. I'm not specifically talking about local sales.

The thread title clearly says selling a COMPUTER on craigslist and kijiji...

Yes and it has already went off-topic especially when you're talking about individual computer components.

meeting some guy at a tim horotns to sell a $20 starbucks card is a whole another ballgame.

When people use the BST forums, or heatware or ebay, THATS when they rely on the feedback because they cant physically be there to test it, so they are basing PAST experiences for that purchase, this isnt the case with kijiji and craigslist, as theres no feedback ratings...

Again, I thought we're talking about the entire issue of buying and selling. I'm not specifically talking about craigslist.

As far as those risks about taking a buyer in your house, well thats fine and thats the sellers mindset... the buyer must be thinking "oh, this guy doesn't want me to find out where he lives, or doesn't want me to test anything... surely a scam".

If youve had good sales like this, then good for you... I personally (and others have raised this issue) wouldnt buy something used, LOCALLY without testing it. Now obviously, if you have a feedback system to back that up... then thats a diff story.

Even if you used RFD to setup a local transaction, you can at least rely on the feedback system here.

[kcorscadden]

Most of the stuff that I sell doesn't come anywhere close to the value of a car. Some of the requests that I have got for testing my stuff is more like trying it out to see if they like it. I'm not interested in letting someone try it out and then decide whether they want it or not.

It is irrelevant what you are selling. The point is that buyers want to test out the item and they have EVERY RIGHT TO DO SO regardless of what you say. Doesn't matter if it is a car, tv. MP3 player, computer, HDD, or any other electronic or mechanical device. It doesn't matter if the item costs $5,000 or $50, the point is to make sure the item WORKS !!!

There is a difference between testing something out and letting someone examine the items itself. When I have met the buyer at a designated location, I've always let them examine the product to make sure everything is ok and nothing is missing.

This is apart of the buying process. Are you telling me that when you are considering buying an item that you don't test it out?

- Furniture, are you saying that you don't sit on the sofa or chair and test its firmness and comfort?
- TV, are you saying that you don't watch the screen to see what kind of picture it has?
- Car, you telling me that you don't test drive it before buying?
- House, you don't go inside and take a look around before putting in an offer?
- etc, etc, etc....

Of course you do and there is no difference between these items listed above and whatever you sell.

The point is that there is a process to buying an item and part of that process is to test out the desired item to see if it meets his/her wants/needs.

At the end of the day, if there is a difference in opinion on how to proceed things, then I'll try to find a compromise, but if it's not possible, then I won't deal. It's simple and I won't cry if I can't get a transaction to work. No one is forcing the buyer to buy something that they don't want to. If they don't feel comfortable moving forward, then they can always leave.

Well at least you are aware of this..... I don't know how long it takes you on avg to sell an item (depending on the item) but I would imagine it would take awhile given your reasons.

[Sgt_Strider]

It is irrelevant what you are selling. The point is that buyers want to test out the item and they have EVERY RIGHT TO DO SO regardless of what you say. Doesn't matter if it is a car, tv. MP3 player, computer, HDD, or any other electronic or mechanical device. It doesn't matter if the item costs $5,000 or $50, the point is to make sure the item WORKS !!!



This is apart of the buying process. Are you telling me that when you are considering buying an item that you don't test it out?

- Furniture, are you saying that you don't sit on the sofa or chair and test its firmness and comfort?
- TV, are you saying that you don't watch the screen to see what kind of picture it has?
- Car, you telling me that you don't test drive it before buying?
- House, you don't go inside and take a look around before putting in an offer?
- etc, etc, etc....

I don't operate a business and therefore there is no need to go that far. When you buy a TV, you don't get to demo the product either. You only get to see the TV that is on display. You can't tell the salesman to open up a brand new box for you to examine. Same thing with the electronics that you have mentioned. Obviously this is not a general rule and people must adapt accordingly.

Of course you do and there is no difference between these items listed above and whatever you sell.

The point is that there is a process to buying an item and part of that process is to test out the desired item to see if it meets his/her wants/needs.



Well at least you are aware of this..... I don't know how long it takes you on avg to sell an item (depending on the item) but I would imagine it would take awhile given your reasons.

The point of contention have to do with price and not whether I'm going to sell them broken parts. I've sold plenty of things on RFD since I started participating here and never have I had any problems. Just because I'm the only one to speak out doesn't mean there aren't other people who agree with me. I also sell new items too and it would be crazy to let someone test out the product to see if he wants it and then say he doesn't want it. By then the item is no longer new and I can't sell it as a new item. You're over generalizing things here. It's not as black and white as you make it seem to be. Have you tried selling anything on RFD before? Not everyone is as paranoid as you. Frankly if you don't like the seller's policy, then you're free to buy elsewhere.

[kcorscadden]

I don't operate a business and therefore there is no need to go that far. When you buy a TV, you don't get to demo the product either. You only get to see the TV that is on display. You can't tell the salesman to open up a brand new box for you to examine. Same thing with the electronics that you have mentioned. Obviously this is not a general rule and people must adapt accordingly.

Of course you do and there is no difference between these items listed above and whatever you sell.



The point of contention have to do with price and not whether I'm going to sell them broken parts. I've sold plenty of things on RFD since I started participating here and never have I had any problems. Just because I'm the only one to speak out doesn't mean there aren't other people who agree with me. I also sell new items too and it would be crazy to let someone test out the product to see if he wants it and then say he doesn't want it. By then the item is no longer new and I can't sell it as a new item. You're over generalizing things here. It's not as black and white as you make it seem to be. Have you tried selling anything on RFD before? Not everyone is as paranoid as you. Frankly if you don't like the seller's policy, then you're free to buy elsewhere.

All I know is that if I was going to buy a USED electronic or mechanical item off some stranger that I don't even know other than by a username, email address or phone number, I would be testing out the item to ensure that it works. Anyone who doesn't is a damn fool and deserves what they get for not testing it before hand.

I understand why you wouldn't volunteer the privilege to test an item before buying, but if they ask to test it (used), then I don't see how you have the right to deny them that right. Most of the time, I'd have to imagine that you just killed your sale right there as many I am sure would walk away. Sure another potential buyer would come knocking if your item was a hot item, but how many times are you going to play with fire.

Oh and based on what many ppl have said prior to me, it looks like there is a lot of paranoid ppl out there ;)

[nfuz]

I thought we're covering the entire issue of buying and selling. I'm not specifically talking about local sales.



Yes and it has already went off-topic especially when you're talking about individual computer components.



Again, I thought we're talking about the entire issue of buying and selling. I'm not specifically talking about craigslist.



Even if you used RFD to setup a local transaction, you can at least rely on the feedback system here.

I didn't read the whole thread, so if I missed the part where the topic changed from selling a COMPUTER on craigslis/kijiji to selling anything on the net, then sorry.

I was talking about individual components, because you were mentioning how you've sold other stuff, but have never sold a computer. So it was you that brought it off topic, if it wasnt already off topic.

Again, you may not be talking about specifically craigslist, but the title (and so this thread) is. My comments were addressed to the OP, and his original question and the title of the thread, not buying/selling in general.

yes, if you use rfd, and the transaction is local, then this would fall into the realm of also using feedback from other sources, ebay, heatware, and thats cool. However, once again, this thread has nothing to do with a RFD setup sale, so if the sale isnt arranged through rfd (or heatware, ebay), then technically, anyone can pose as a reputable seller to scam.

For instance, an individual can make a posting on craigslist to sell a rather expensive product, and simply claim he's the same individual that has the 100% feedback on RFD, ebay, heatware whatever.... I wouldn't trust that he is who he says he is, unless that sale was done through 1 of those sites.

[nfuz]

When you buy a TV, you don't get to demo the product either. You only get to see the TV that is on display. You can't tell the salesman to open up a brand new box for you to examine. Same thing with the electronics that you have mentioned.

You are making no sense...

You dont get to test out the exact part you are getting, because you can see a model just like it on display.

You also get plenty of time to "Test it" AT HOME AT YOUR CONVINIENCE< and if you dont like it, return it. ARe you offering this luxury to your buyers that buy your products untested?

You cant compare a reputable business selling something to you SEALED from the manufacturer, backed with warranties, and credit card purchase power (call em up, charge back if store doesnt refund), to a INDIVIDUAL selling a USED item for CASH. Its just not the same, and I find it ludicrous that you even compared the two!


The point of contention have to do with price and not whether I'm going to sell them broken parts. I've sold plenty of things on RFD since I started participating here and never have I had any problems. Just because I'm the only one to speak out doesn't mean there aren't other people who agree with me. I also sell new items too and it would be crazy to let someone test out the product to see if he wants it and then say he doesn't want it. By then the item is no longer new and I can't sell it as a new item. You're over generalizing things here. It's not as black and white as you make it seem to be. Have you tried selling anything on RFD before? Not everyone is as paranoid as you. Frankly if you don't like the seller's policy, then you're free to buy elsewhere.

I dont think anyone here is saying you should let a buyer test out a BRAND NEW sealed product... Obviously not, youd give them the same blanket staement: "Listen, its sealed and unopned when you buy it, if its not to your likings, deal with the manufacturer through warranty"..... But not allowing someone to test a product that he may potentially buy, is just silly.

I also dont know why you keep brinign RFD into this... this thread has nothing to do with sales backed up by a feedback system. This thread is asking for comments dealing with sites that dont rely on feedback.

[Sgt_Strider]

All I know is that if I was going to buy a USED electronic or mechanical item off some stranger that I don't even know other than by a username, email address or phone number, I would be testing out the item to ensure that it works. Anyone who doesn't is a damn fool and deserves what they get for not testing it before hand.

I understand why you wouldn't volunteer the privilege to test an item before buying, but if they ask to test it (used), then I don't see how you have the right to deny them that right. Most of the time, I'd have to imagine that you just killed your sale right there as many I am sure would walk away. Sure another potential buyer would come knocking if your item was a hot item, but how many times are you going to play with fire.

Oh and based on what many ppl have said prior to me, it looks like there is a lot of paranoid ppl out there ;)

I've already said earlier that there is a difference between testing out whether a product works and trying out a product. If it's practical for me to unbox an item and let the person see that it works, then yea I can contemplate of doing it. I've never had someone accusing me of selling him junk. What I will not do is to let someone try out a product to see if he likes it. There are paranoid people out there, but probably not as extreme as you.

[Sgt_Strider]

I didn't read the whole thread, so if I missed the part where the topic changed from selling a COMPUTER on craigslis/kijiji to selling anything on the net, then sorry.

Were you not talking about individual computer components earlier like hard drives and motherboards? Either way, you've made your point and you know what, no one really gives a ****. If you don't want to drag this on, then let this part of the discussion stop.

I was talking about individual components, because you were mentioning how you've sold other stuff, but have never sold a computer. So it was you that brought it off topic, if it wasnt already off topic.

Even if I did, so what? It's no big deal. The OP isn't complaining and it's not your thread so w/e.

Again, you may not be talking about specifically craigslist, but the title (and so this thread) is. My comments were addressed to the OP, and his original question and the title of the thread, not buying/selling in general.

Yet, you failed to get this thread back on track.

yes, if you use rfd, and the transaction is local, then this would fall into the realm of also using feedback from other sources, ebay, heatware, and thats cool. However, once again, this thread has nothing to do with a RFD setup sale, so if the sale isnt arranged through rfd (or heatware, ebay), then technically, anyone can pose as a reputable seller to scam.

For instance, an individual can make a posting on craigslist to sell a rather expensive product, and simply claim he's the same individual that has the 100% feedback on RFD, ebay, heatware whatever.... I wouldn't trust that he is who he says he is, unless that sale was done through 1 of those sites.

Neither would I trust anyone with zero feedback and one that I've never met before. I've already said my comments in the context of buying and selling in general. :rolleyes:

[Sgt_Strider]

You are making no sense...

You dont get to test out the exact part you are getting, because you can see a model just like it on display.

That's exactly what I was saying. :rolleyes:

You also get plenty of time to "Test it" AT HOME AT YOUR CONVINIENCE< and if you dont like it, return it. ARe you offering this luxury to your buyers that buy your products untested?

You cant compare a reputable business selling something to you SEALED from the manufacturer, backed with warranties, and credit card purchase power (call em up, charge back if store doesnt refund), to a INDIVIDUAL selling a USED item for CASH. Its just not the same, and I find it ludicrous that you even compared the two!

If you have all the time in the world then sure you can go and let people examine your stuff to see if they want to buy it or not. I'm not interested in doing that. What's ludicrous is you telling me how I should conduct my transactions. It might not be a big deal for me to let someone test out a product to see if it works if they're going to commit to purchasing it. I can't say whether I'll do it or not, but it'll depend on circumstances. I've never had someone as picky as you making all sorts of demands. Obviously there have to be a certain level of trust in order for a trade to work. What's even crazier is that you want to drag this discussion on. The points are made and it's obvious you don't like what I say. You can even look up my heatware info and everyone of them have not complaint about my practices nor had any issues with me.

I dont think anyone here is saying you should let a buyer test out a BRAND NEW sealed product... Obviously not, youd give them the same blanket staement: "Listen, its sealed and unopned when you buy it, if its not to your likings, deal with the manufacturer through warranty"..... But not allowing someone to test a product that he may potentially buy, is just silly.

I've already said time after time that there is a difference between testing out whether a product works and trying something out. Read what I said before.

I also dont know why you keep brinign RFD into this... this thread has nothing to do with sales backed up by a feedback system. This thread is asking for comments dealing with sites that dont rely on feedback.

I fully recognize that and I would have just let it be had it not for you insisting to drag this on further with your comments. I've already said it's in the context of buying and selling in general on RFD. If you want to go back on topic, then stop draging this discussion on and on. As a buyer you have the option of not buying from a seller. You have no right to tell how a seller should conduct his business.

[squall458]

Didnt read any of the post but you could agree to drop it off at the buyers house and they could test it and know it works in their setup. Now they dont know where you live and how much goodies you have :)

[van]

I see no problem with having a buyer test a computer in your house. I don't see how else the buyer is going to test it if you meetup somewhere - unless of couse, you drop it off at buyers place.

Over the past 15 years or so, I've had hundreds of people come by and pickup stuff I had for sale. Never had any problems.

[felix]

It's also more safe if you live in a condo/apartment building I suppose. Can meet them downstairs in the lobby or main entrance, or have them come up if they want (doubt they'll try anything with not so sound-proof walls between you and your neighbours!)