Reuse and resale
Write a free-item listing that avoids repeat questions
A good free listing answers the first questions people ask: what the item is, what shape it is in, how big it is, what comes with it, and how it can be collected. Inspect and measure the item before you write.
A text to start with
I want to post a free listing for [item]. What I know: condition [wear, damage, missing parts], dimensions [height, width, depth, weight], included parts [list], brand/model and recall-check result [details or not checked], function tested and limits [details or untested], pickup terms [days, time windows, stairs, who must carry it]. Draft a short public listing from only these facts. List the details you still need from me and do not fill gaps.
Example request. Change the details to fit your situation.Free-item listing worksheet
Item and common name: [ ] Approximate age, if known: [ ] Condition, stated plainly: [ ] Known defects, stains or damage: [ ] Tested or untested, and what I tested: [ ] Missing parts or parts that do not work: [ ] Dimensions (height, width, depth) and unit: [ ] Weight, or whether one person can lift it: [ ] Included parts, accessories or manuals: [ ] Brand, model or label number (for a recall check): [ ] Recall search done, where and when: [ ] Pickup days and time windows: [ ] Stairs, narrow doors or carrying needed: [ ] Transport the person should bring: [ ] Public area to show in the listing: [ ] Details to share only with the chosen person: [ ]
Defects and details to keep out
Compare the draft with the item itself. Look for defects in your notes that the draft softened, such as a wobble, a stain, a cracked part or a missing screw. Check that dimensions and weight match what you measured. Describe only the function you actually tested and list the parts you verified. A function test does not establish that an item is safe. CPSC tells resellers to check for recalled and unsafe products, and a product missing from a recall search is not shown to be safe. Remove your street address, building access details and your home schedule from the public text.
Ask another agent to check the result
Compare this listing with my notes. Quote each sentence that leaves out or softens a defect, missing part or pickup limit, and suggest corrected wording. Also quote any detail about my home, schedule or building access that should not appear in a public post.
Publish and track questions
Confirm the brand and model where available, check relevant recall information and resolve concerns before posting. Hold back an item with an unresolved recall or safety concern. Read the final listing against your notes, then share only the general pickup area publicly. Send the agreed collection details privately to the chosen person.