Are you looking for a cheap computer? If you can't afford the cost of new, you may be looking for an affordable used computer. One of the best places to find these are online and at Craigslist.org.
When buying cheap computers from Craigslist, shoppers need to keep a number of important points in mind. These points, a few of which are outlined below, can help you ensure you get a good deal.
Search multiple cities on Craigslist. Right now, the website is setup so that you can only search one city at a time. This is good, but don't limit yourself. What if a cheap computer is offered for sale less than 1 hour away, but is listed under a different city? You may have missed out on a good deal. Start by searching the for sale computers on your city page and then focus on other nearby areas.
Choose your search words or phrases wisely. This is how you find the best deals. You can use the search box on the left-hand side of the page, but you must first enter in what you are looking for. If you are looking for a cheap laptop computer, search with the word "laptop." However, if you are looking for a particular laptop or desktop model, include it in your search. For example, you can search for Dell desktop computers, MacBooks, and HP laptops.
Read all computer listings carefully. When buying used electronics online, you must focus on more than the asking price. A low price or even something for free is usually a signal of something wrong. You may have a laptop with a missing charging cord, a laptop with a battery that can't hold a charge, or a desktop computer sold without the monitor and other accessories. Buying these computers is okay, but figure in the cost of needed upgrades and repairs. Make sure you are still getting a good deal.
Avoid listings where the mail is the only way to receive your purchase. They warn your right on the Craigslist.org website that this is usually a scam. If you find a good deal on a computer that doesn't need repairs or if you can do the repairs yourself, you may want to avoid the four hour drive. Arranging delivery by mail is risky, but usually okay if it was your idea to begin with.
In short, you can find the best deals on Craigslist computers by avoiding purchases through the mail, reading all listings carefully, using targeted search phrases, and by searching multiple cities. To search multiple locations at once, as well as other classified websites (there are others besides Craigslist), download a desktop search tool.
