Buying safely
Meet, inspect and pay safely
Use practical checks before completing a local purchase or sending any money.
Before meeting
- Ask specific questions about condition, ownership and included accessories.
- Compare the price with similar listings.
- Avoid deposits to an unknown seller where you have not inspected the item.
- Tell someone where you are going and arrange daylight collection where possible.
At the meeting
- 1Meet in a sensible public place for portable items.
- 2Inspect and test the item before paying.
- 3Check serial numbers, documents or compatibility where relevant.
- 4Walk away if the item or circumstances do not match the ad.
Payment
Agree the payment method directly with the seller. Local Ads does not hold ordinary marketplace transaction funds. Never use gift cards, cryptocurrency or unusual payment services because a stranger insists.
Common questions
Does Local Ads protect an offline payment?
Local Ads connects buyers and sellers but is not the payment provider for ordinary marketplace transactions. Inspect carefully and agree payment directly.
What if the seller pressures me to pay first?
Do not proceed if you cannot verify the item, seller or payment request. A genuine seller should allow reasonable checks.