O.B.O.
I have a habit. This habit involves making sure I see about 37% of the for-sale postings on Craigslist, specifically the Des Moines site.
I’ve successfully used Craigslist to dispose of a trampoline (I’ve never had so many emails so quickly as when I advertised “Free Trampoline” – goodbye, legbreaker). I’ve given away windows (with a post so witty it got angered responses). It brings me pleasure, and one of these days, I’ll buy something from someone. Until that day, I use it as a window into the lives of my fellow central Iowans.
I’ll reserve comment on things like grammar, spelling, and general writing ability, because as we know, I can’t write either. I do,, however, have one issue I’d like to address. It goes something like this.
I’ve got a ‘74 Widgetblaster Special for sale. (I’m not telling you this, but you know its the third time I’ve posted it). Works ok, but could probably use some work. Its pretty much totally used up past its engineered lifespan. It cost $125 in 1974 (adjusted for inflation), and I’d like $90 or best offer for it. I’ll go lower on the price if needed. $65 is my bottom dollar.
There are a couple issues here. First of all, folks, once stuff is used up, it is used up. Nothing illustrated this more than the prices people were asking for 25 year old mopeds once gas hit $3.75 a gallon. $800 for an ‘86 Honda Spree? Yeah, I’m pretty sure it retailed new in ‘86 for about $1200, so that seems like a fair price considering its been thrashed by eighteen different eighth graders over the last 22 years.
Secondly – why would you tell me a price, then tell me you want best offer, THEN tell me what your bottom dollar is? What is my motivation to give you more than $65? I don’t get it.
By the way, I’ll sell you this post for $18, though I’m willing to take a bit less. In this case, a bit is equal to about eighteen dollars.