Gumtree is a popular site for selling second hand items, from furniture to cars to tools. It is mainly used in the UK and Europe. If you have used items that you would like to sell, on Gumtree you can do it quickly and effectively. Start by creating an account, then post your ad with as much detail as possible. Respond correctly to potential buyers so that you can sell the things you no longer need.
Steps
Part 1 of 3: Create a Gumtree Account
Step 1. Visit the Gumtree website
Search for "Gumtree" with a browser. The home page of the site should be the first result in the list.
You can access Gumtree with your iOS or Android phone by downloading the Gumtree app from the App store. Once installed, press the app icon to open it
Step 2. Choose your username and password
To create an account on Gumtree, you need to choose a username to use on the site. Find a nickname that doesn't reveal too much personal information about you, such as a nickname or a variation of your real name.
- If the name you chose is already in use, add numbers at the end. For example, "VendoUsato555".
- Choose a password that is easy to remember. Try to use a combination of letters and numbers so that the passkey is safe and difficult to guess.
Step 3. Add a profile picture
You can choose a photo of yourself or something cute, like your pet. With a profile picture your ads will grab the attention of buyers more and attract them to your items. Find a professional shot that lets your personality shine through.
Adding a picture to your profile is optional and a completely personal choice. You can create a Gumtree account even without photos
Part 2 of 3: Create an Ad for Your Item
Step 1. Select the category of the object
Place your ad in the correct category to attract more buyers. For example, if you want to sell furniture, choose the "Home & Garden" category. If you want to sell electronic devices, try the "Computers & Software" category.
- Try including sub-categories like "Furniture" in "Home & Garden" or "Electronics" in "Computers & Software". This will make it easier for buyers to find your items.
- You can also use Gumtree's "Tell us what you are posting" option. In this way you can manually enter the subject and the site will choose the most suitable category for you.
Step 2. Add your geographic location
Enter the postcode of the location you want to sell the item from, so buyers can find your items that way as well. Gumtree will show your listings to buyers living in your area.
Your zip code will not appear in the ad, but Gumtree will use it to categorize it based on your location
Step 3. Describe the object in detail
Include the type, material and condition. Add the measurements or dimensions of the item and why you want to sell it.
- For example, your description may be: "Beautiful walnut chair with blue upholstered seat. In good condition, no scratches or marks. 85 cm long and 50 cm wide. I have no more space to keep it after changing furniture".
- Be honest in your description and don't overdo it. Admit any damage or problems with the item, so the buyer knows exactly what they are buying.
Step 4. Use beautiful images
Take pictures of the object with a good camera. Make sure they are sharp and in focus. Choose a well-lit area, such as a room with lots of artificial light, or your driveway on a sunny day. Good quality photos encourage buyers to contact you.
- Include images of the object from different angles. Take an overview and close-up. If the item has a unique design on the bottom or side, be sure to immortalize that detail and include it in the listing.
- Include at least one or two beautiful photos in the ad. The more photos you add, the more likely you are to sell the item.
Step 5. Include the price
Inform potential buyers if you are willing to negotiate by writing "negotiable", "accept offers", or indicate if the price is fixed.
Step 6. Give your ad a title
Use a short, descriptive sentence to attract buyers. Make it clear in the title what type of item you are selling. You can also include a comment such as "Great Deal", "Rare" or "Antiques".
For example, you can use "Dining room chair, antiques" or "Turntable in good condition" as the title
Step 7. Post your ad
Once your ad is written, post it for free on Gumtree. You will be able to respond to buyers who contact you by logging into the site.
If you are using the Gumtree app on your phone, you can chat with potential buyers directly through the app
Part 3 of 3: Responding to Potential Buyers
Step 1. Respond to offers in a timely manner
Check often the offers you receive for the item, trying to respond as soon as possible, so as not to lose buyers. Use the Gumtree app's "My Messages" tab to respond to buyers right away.
Using the "My Messages" tab also allows you to monitor all potential buyers and keep the history of conversations with them
Step 2. Answer questions from potential buyers
Give short, clear answers to questions about the subject. Be friendly and helpful to encourage users to buy from you.
- They may ask you questions about the material of the object and its condition.
- Buyers can also ask you if you're willing to sell multiple items for a certain price if you've posted multiple ads on Gumtree.
Step 3. Accept the best offer if you receive more than one
It may happen that you receive offers from multiple buyers. Choose the best one from your point of view. Often, it will be the highest one.
If you accept a buyer's offer, send a short message to other interested users saying you have sold the item
Step 4. Agree with the buyer for payment
You should always get paid in cash in person. Arrange for a meeting in a place that you can reach comfortably, such as your office or a nearby parking lot. If you offer delivery, arrange a meeting point with the buyer. Always collect the money before delivering the item.
- If you are worried about meeting a buyer in person, bring a friend with you. Always choose public places for meetings.
- In rare cases, you can offer to ship the item to the buyer by post. In this case, discuss with him whether to increase the price to cover the shipping and handling costs.
