Everyone tells you to do this to save money. But does it really work? Is it Safe?
I've had a good experience buying things on Craigslist! I've saved a bunch of money and I was able to try out some new activities without going into debt. One of my favorite purchases was my stand up paddle-board. I love driving down to the harbor on summer mornings and enjoying a good ride.
I also have bought surfboards-several and some camera gear. I just make sure I do my research ahead of time. If I meet up with someone to buy the item, I take a friend along to hang out. I also try to write down the person's license plate number in case there are any problems-counterfeit bills or stolen good. This has never happened to me.
It's best to do all your price negotiating over the phone via text before you meet up with the seller. And if the item looks different than the picture when you arrive, you can always offer less on the spot. A good question to ask is "What's your lowest price?' Negotiating can be difficult when you first start doing it but it gets easier.