Re: Funny "TLC needed" boat ads on Craigslist.
Here's a rant posted today on Minneapolis Craigslist:
Nice Boat - Great Condition - $9999 (Minneapolis)
Date: 2011-04-14, 2:09PM CDT
Reply to:
sale-k48t3-2325197554@craigslist.org [Errors when replying to ads?]
I'm a normal person trying to buy a boat, and I've discovered a few things about your sellers' boat ads.
-To those selling your 30+ foot SeaRay megacruisers for $50,000 to $150,000...While these boats are out of the reach of 99.9% of Americans, and 99.999% of Craigslist users, the least you can do is be sure to include pictures in your ad. If I win the lottery and I'm in the market to spend that kind of money, here's a hint: If I do find myself trawling CL for such a boat, I need pictures.
-To those selling any boat...please include the Year, Make, and Model. That's the absolute minimum. Guess what? If you're trying to sell any type of vehicle for THOUSANDS of dollars, I need more than "Nice Boat - great condition". Hours, color, engine size, overall length, and service records are something to consider in your ad. Be creative and thorough...I DARE YOU.
-For ads that say: "Phone calls only, no emails or text"...Shut up and get off of Craiglist, NOW! You used a computer to place the ad; now use it to respond to inquiries! That's the WHOLE point of Craigslist. Email addresses are FREE; create a new one for FREE and use it for posting and replying to FREE CL correspondence.
-For ads that say: "Firm Price," "No lowballs," or "Will not take less than listed price," Please remind yourself that CL is not Walmart. It is a place to barter and negotiate in a civilized manner.
Also note that if you've had your boat for sale for WEEKS at the same price, there is only one explanation: YOUR PRICE IS TOO HIGH.
-"Cash Only". No kidding. Don't even include this. If you are buying and selling on CL, it's implicit. Duh.
-If the boat is in "mint" condition, don't be afraid to tell me just how "mint" it is. See the note about including pictures and descriptions. If it's in pretty lousy condition, don't beat around the bush. Tell me the upholstery is garbage, the gas has been in the tank for 4 years, and the floor has soft spots. Then price it accordingly.
-Stop selling your waterskis, wake boards, ropes, anchors, life jackets and fishing rods in the "BOATS" section. If you need a definition of what a boat is, just give up now.
-Fully expect any potential buyer to want to drive the boat, in actual water, at a time and location that is moderately convenient to the buyer. Prepare to make your boat and yourself available on evenings and weekends. Keep in mind you are trying to sell a non-essential, recreational item in the midst of an unhealthy economy. If you can't be flexible, just give up now.
-Your boat is NOT "better than new!" And don't tell me there's "None nicer anywhere!" There is. And they're willing to negotiate. And they have pictures. And they use "Email".
Now - Good selling!
Pretty much sums it up!
It is funny on craigs list but!!! I bought this 84 17' Imperial with a 115 merc. on craigs list for $100. It was in such bad shape there was a tree growing from the floor. I've spent the last 6 months restoring it back to better than new condition. I've just put the second layer of boot stripes on the hull. Next week it will get the final paint on the hull. Engine compression is 130 on all 6 cyl., and I've repaired, repainted or replaced just about everything. But it was an old prize from craigslist at the right price
