Stalking the CL

Craigslist has been on fire lately around the Boston area. I really don't need anything at the moment, but I can't resist stalking the constantly updating site just in case something screams "Take me home!!"

I will be the first to admit that 99.9% of everything in my apartment is a CL or thrift store find. Keep in mind that I was jobless and living on a mattress and box spring when we first moved here so I made it my mission to furnish 1100sqft with little to no money. I spent countless hours trolling the site and I picked up a few tricks along the way.

Tip #1

Its all about keywords.

I have some go-to words that I search and I can usually get some goodies. (ex. Mid Century Modern, Mirrored, West Elm, Anthropologie, Tufted, Hollywood Regency, Solid Wood)

Tip #2

If its a bad picture, don't even waste your time.

If the seller can't take 2 seconds to take a decent picture, then the chances that they took good care of their item is slim to none.

Tip #3

You can low ball, but don't insult.

I usually offer about 80% of the asking price, but if you offer any less then don't expect a response. You don't look like a serious buyer and they won't want to bother getting back to you.

Tip #4

Abide by the CL law of karma.

If you commit to buying an item then you better show up at the scheduled time and location or call well in advance if a conflict arises. No-shows are just in bad form and the CL Gods will hunt you down.

Tip #5

Don't buy "cheap"

Spending money on second hand pieces from Ikea, Target, Walmart etc. is really not the way to go. When something is super inexpensive originally, then by the time it gets on CL it is on its last leg. At that point just buy directly from the source.

Tip #6

Ask about the sellers pad.

Pets? Smokers? Third floor walk-up?

These are details you want to know BEFORE you make the trek out to pick something up.

Tip #7

Measure 1..2..3 times

Make sure you are positive that the item will fit your space. Ask for specific dimensions because the worst is doing all the grunt work of getting it home and then discovering it does not fit.

Tip #8

NEVER pick up anything alone.

Unless you goal is to end up dead in an alley behind the gas station...then go for it.

These are some postings that I pulled off CL today. If you are in the Boston area then I suggest you nab these up ASAP. And if you do, send me a pic because I will be so jelly!!

Night Stands (2) for $400

Silver Ceramic Drum Tables $59/each

Danish Modern Bedroom Set $495

Tufted Sofa $250

Area Rug 9'x12' $100

Leather Pouf $115

 If you have any other tips I would love to hear them- I am always open to new suggestions!

XOXO Katie

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