I’ve gotten pretty lucky on FB Marketplace! I’ve found an incredible brass articulated lamp and a killer coffee table that is over 50 years old!

Shopping on the Marketplace is great, but DO NOT FORGET that you’re meeting up with a stranger and you need to keep your wits about you! I thought I would share my top 5 tips to stay safe when shopping on FB, Craigslist, or any other site.

Trust Your Gut

Olivia Pope once said, “My gut tells me everything I need to know.” And she ain’t never lied! So, before you hop in the Uber, think about this… Does this sound too good to be true? Isn’t it weird that the seller requested you come to pick up the item after 10 pm? Is the address they provided for picking up an empty lot in the middle of nowhere?

Yea, if the vibe feels off - it probably is!

The Buddy System

Those camp counselors were on to something they created the Buddy System. Ask a friend to ride with you to meet the seller (this also helps if the item is heavy).

If your friends can’t be your second (word to Hamilton), be sure to share your location and/or have someone on FaceTime during the interaction.

Meet ‘Em At The Door

I always ask the sellers to keep the item near the front door or outside. I NEVER enter people's homes… I DON'T CARE if they are nicer than Apple Pie or if I’m literally about to pee on myself. I will never enter a person’s home and I urge you to follow my lead.

If the seller doesn't want (or is unable) to move heavy items this is your moment to just pay up! Hire a mover or enlist your friends with strong backs to help you!

JUST DON’T ENTER A STRANGERS HOME ALONE!

#’s Don’t Lie

I, personally, have never been in this situation, but paying with Zelle seems like a great idea. On my latest FB Marketplace purchase, I paid with Zelle and the seller had to give me all her information (name and phone number). Her info is now saved on my phone and with my bank. If something was to happen, there is a record of who I paid, how much I paid, what time the transaction took place, and where I was when it all went down! All of this information would be extremely helpful in establishing a timeline if something was to happen!

No Play. No Pay.

This only applies when you’re shopping locally, but DO NOT send money before you see the product. Always ask for more photos, videos and try to inspect the product in person before you buy.

If you're having something shipped to you, ask if they will send a video or have a Zoom call to look at the item.

I’ve watched way too much Criminal Minds in my life! But, in all seriousness, your safety is nothing to play with and your life isn’t worth a $200 China cabinet.

Stay safe,

imani