Best practices for buying

Below are some tips and a few easy things you can do to have a smooth and successful buying experience on OfferUp.

Build a trustworthy profile

Your profile helps sellers get a sense of who they're selling to. A complete profile can give sellers more confidence before they respond to you. Here's what you can do: 

• Add a clear profile photo.
• Verify your email and phone number to earn profile badges.
• Apply for TruYou verification.
• Turn on notifications so you can respond quickly and not miss out on an item.

Review the listing carefully

Before reaching out to a seller, take a close look at the listing to make sure it's the right item for you. Here's what to look for:

• Review all photos carefully. Photos should show the actual item — not stock photos, screenshots, or images pulled from another website.
• Read the full description, including the condition. Look for mentions of defects, wear, or missing parts.
• Research the item's market value so you have a sense of what to expect before making an offer.

Know what to look for on a seller’s profile

A seller's profile can give you a better sense of who you're buying from before you ever send a message. Here's what to check:

• Ratings. Look at both the number of ratings and the overall score. A seller with many positive ratings can give you more confidence going into a transaction.
• Activity stats. Indicators like "Responds within a few minutes" and "Active in the past hour" give you a sense of how responsive the seller tends to be.
• Verification badges. Email, phone, TruYou, and similar badges show the seller has taken steps to confirm their identity.
• Compliments. These are optional notes a buyer or seller can leave after a transaction, and can give you additional context about their experience with the seller.

Spot the green flags

Here are signs you’re dealing with someone trustworthy:

• They communicate promptly and keep the conversation within OfferUp.
• They suggest a safe, public meetup spot.
• They have positive reviews and verification badges on their profile.
• Their listings use real photos of the actual item.
• They’re upfront about the item’s condition.

Connect with sellers the right way

Good communication sets the tone for a smooth transaction. When you’re ready to reach out:

• Send the seller a message to ask questions or arrange the purchase. Keep all communication within the OfferUp app.
• If you'd like more photos or specific details, ask the seller to add them to the listing.
• Keep communication respectful and professional.

Negotiate fairly

Negotiating is a normal part of buying on OfferUp, but how you do it matters. Here's how to approach it:

• Research similar listings so your offer is grounded in market value.
• Be respectful with your offers. An offer that's too low may put off a seller before the conversation gets started.
• Be open to counteroffers and respond promptly.

Confirm the details before you meet

Once you and the seller agree on a price, confirm the logistics before meeting up. Sorting out the details in advance helps everything go smoothly. Before meeting:

• Agree on a specific time and location.
• Confirm the payment method ahead of time. All transactions on OfferUp take place in person. Cash is recommended, but agree on what works for both of you.
• For large or heavy items, clarify upfront whether you need to bring help or a vehicle large enough to transport the item.
• If your plans change, let the seller know as early as possible.

Meet safely

Safety comes first. We strongly recommend meeting in a well-lit, public location. To keep the transaction safe:

• Bring a trusted friend or let someone know where you're going and who you're meeting.
• For high-value items, choose a meetup spot with security cameras, like a police station parking lot.
• If you're running late, send the seller a message so no one is left waiting.
• Trust your instincts. If something feels wrong, it's okay to cancel.

Complete the purchase the right way

When completing the purchase:

• Inspect the item in person before paying. Check for any defects, damage, or functionality issues. You have the right to decline if it doesn't match the listing, but do so politely.
• Pay in person at the time of meetup. OfferUp does not process payments through the app — never send money in advance of meeting the seller. Avoid gift cards, personal checks, or wire transfers.
• Resolve any concerns with the seller before paying. Once money has changed hands, the sale is final.
• Rate the seller once the transaction is complete.

Report problems

If something doesn't seem right, don't ignore it:

• If a listing appears to violate OfferUp's Posting Rules, or a seller seems suspicious, tap Report so the OfferUp team can investigate.
• If you ever feel unsafe or believe you're in an emergency, contact local police and emergency services first.