If the ad is still up, then it is still available.

I love Craigslist. Since college, I have found every one of my apartments using it, from Portland to Boston and now in Chicago — my latest apartment being my favorite because the ceiling fan and light in my bedroom are controlled by a remote. I’m living in luxury, thanks to Craigslist. 

But I also hate Craigslist. Selling anything on Craigslist is such a hassle. Couches, computers, corpses*. It’s all such a hassle. There’s the persistent spam, but I expect that:

like i said i will like to buy this item so pls do withdraw the advert from Craigslist. I will also like you to know that i will be paying via check

What I really hate are the real people who are complete idiots:

hi is this still available id like to see?

or

Turns out we don’t have a truck for these items. If anything changes I will check in with you.

I try to be very clear in my ads. I list what’s for sale, quality, dimensions, where it is and when it’s available. Despite this, who ask questions that I already answered in the listing. Where is it? When can I come by? How much is it? 

I also always include a simple note: “If the ad is still up, then it is still available.” I do that because I hate the email responses — especially minutes after the ad was posted — asking if the item is still available. Is the ad still up? Then, yes, it is still available. “Is this still available? I’d like to come by to see it” does not bother me as much, but “Is this still available?” drives me bonkers. 

I have included in all of my listings my current physical short-comings — “I have a broken leg and I cannot help you move this” — and the typical “cash and pick-up only” line, but despite this I’m asked to deliver items. Craigslist favors anyone with a pick-up truck, or at least a car, neither of which I have. Delivery is uncommon in my CL experiences, but when it’s available, the lister screams it loud and proud. Nobody with a broken leg delivers a couch. 

Then, of course, are the worst Craigslisters of all. I’m talking about the people who set up a time to come by… and don’t show up. This is especially annoying now that my leg is broken and I can’t easily travel. 

Craigslist and I have a love/hate relationship. Lately it’s been all hate.

*I’ve never tried to sell a corpse on Craigslist, but I imagine it would be a hassle once the police were involved. 

**Tumblrs can have the sofa bed, coffee table, entertainment stand or folding card table for free. Pick-up only in Ukrainian Village. Email me at elisharene [at] gmail [dot] com.