Addicted to Craigslist...Tips I Learned the Hard Way

Does anyone else absolutely hate the thought of having to decorate the "formal" living room? I swear, that big empty room haunts me in my sleep. I would rather spend the money on a brand new living room set on my family room and then transfer that stuff to the basemen.t. Our last house had a formal living room but we just used it as a playroom. This house has a loft that we made into a playroom so I want to actually fix up this room now. I decided I'd check out Craigslist for a few pieces and I am ecstatic over the things I have found. One thing I learned with Craigslist is you have to act fast and maybe even be a little cruel. This is not in my nature. I have found furniture that I loved for great prices but the greedy little monster in me kept on looking for the bigger better deal and in the end I'd lose out and the original fabulous find. My advice is, if you find something you really like then contact the seller asap!! Do not ask if the piece is still available! Sellers hate that and you will most likely be ignored. Respond to the ad by telling the seller you are interested and then offer your price. If the ad says FIRM then have the courtesy to offer what they ask.  Another tip is to make an offer even if you plan on continuing to search.  Yes, sounds so wrong...and it is! But listen, if you want to take a chance on that one of a kind buffet table being snatched up for $25 then go ahead and be honest.   I will say this, just because you decide to move forward with a new find does not mean the seller of the original piece will be stuck with their merchandise.  These people are bombarded with tons of emails every day!!!  The product will sell!  Here's some more advice, make sure you have the right vehicle to transport the item!!!  Get the dimensions right away!  Nothing will make you more upset than thinking everything is a Go when it isn't!   And ladies, do not to pick up these items alone.  There are a ton of weirdos out there.  A $25 vintage, shabby-chic item isn't worth getting mugged or raped!

Here is what I was able to pick up this week for a total of $130!

Vintage stereo (we had this growing up so it's more of a sentimental thing) $30 -works
Amazing Chair $50
2 Identical Wing Back Chairs in new condition $50 for Both!!