How to avoid common selling mistakes on KSL Classifieds

Successful KSL listings can help you turn your no longer needed items into cash. But what if your item isn’t getting as many views as you’d like? Avoid these seller mistakes on KSL that could be keeping you from saying “Sold!” 

1. Taking poor quality photos

One of the most common seller mistakes is taking poor photos. Potential buyers are deciding whether your item is worth considering by the way it looks. If your pictures are blurry, dark or otherwise unclear, shoppers will quickly move on to the next listing. 

You don’t need to hire a professional photographer, but you should take quality photos. Go outside or place your item next to a window to take advantage of natural lighting. Get rid of any background clutter that will detract from your image. Take advantage of your phone’s filters to enhance the images if needed. 

Be sure to include multiple angles of your item. And while it may seem counterintuitive, include images of flaws so buyers won’t feel misled when they see it in person.

2. Setting the price too high

What you think an item is worth may be different from what a buyer does. How do you price items correctly on KSL Classifieds? Instead of pricing your item based only on what you want to get paid, consider the market. Do some quick research on KSL Classifieds to see what other similar items are selling for. If your item is in better — or worse — condition, price it accordingly. You don’t need the lowest price to sell on KSL Classifieds, but it should be reasonable.

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3. Using poor titles

What words would you use to look up your item? “Couch” or “blue velvet couch”? You have 95 characters to succinctly describe what your item is — use them! Optimize your title with all the important information such as the brand, name and color. Additional details such as model number can help searchers find you too.

4. Using vague descriptions

Similarly, if you aren’t utilizing the description section, how will buyers get excited about your item? Writing an effective KSL listing means including a useful description. Explain what you have, how it’s been used or how well it works.

While “green bike” may accurately describe your listing, it doesn’t answer any questions. Instead, try something such as, “26-inch women’s mountain bike in emerald green. I’ve hit all the local trails with it and it’s never failed me. It’s had yearly tuneups to keep it running smoothly. Custom seat included!” If relevant, include dimensions, specifications or any special features.

5. Using the wrong categories

KSL Classifieds has 29 categories to help you sell online. Furniture, fitness equipment, appliances, pet supplies, recreation vehicles. The list goes on. Choosing the right category and subcategory will help buyers find your item when they’re browsing.

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6. Ignoring buyer messages

If you want to make a sale, you need to talk to the customer. Enable the Messages feature on your KSL Classifieds account and allow notifications. You’ll receive a notice when someone has a question about your listing, so you can quickly respond. Timely communication not only boosts your credibility as a seller, but it also keeps the buyer interested — and more likely to follow through with the sale.

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7. Not using seller verification

Your KSL.com account includes a profile. Increase buyer trust by uploading a profile picture and getting KSL seller verification. When you do, a green check mark will appear next to your listings, letting people know you’re a real person. Buyers may feel more comfortable when they see your smiling mug at the top of your listing, which could mean more interest in your item.

8. Failing to promote listings

New listings are added to KSL Classifieds every day, and each new item starts at the top of the relevant search results page. So after a few days, yours may be harder to find. But you can keep your item in prime position with a Featured listing. On average, that could be 3 times more views than a standard listing. 

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9. Letting a listing get stale

If your listing isn’t attracting buyers, try something new. Add different photos and write a new title. Even if someone has already seen your listing once, a fresh face may encourage a second look and more first clicks.

Sometimes, the timing just wasn’t right. Be sure to renew your listing to give buyers another chance to find it.

10. Holding items

We all want to be nice, but that doesn’t mean you need to sacrifice a sale to accommodate someone. If a potential buyer asks you to hold the item for a few days — because they’re too busy or out of town for a few days — you may be better off saying no. What if they see your item and decide not to buy? Or they never show up at all? You’ll have wasted your time. Encourage them to check back when they’re available.

11. Offering multiple items in one listing

If your title is for a lava lamp, don’t try to sell your piano, tap shoes and tent under the same listing. All the musicians, dancers and campers won’t ever find them. Give every item its own listing. But if someone happens to need a tent for their lava lamp, you’re in luck. At the bottom of every listing, viewers will see “More From This Seller” with images of other items you have for sale.

Use KSL Classifieds selling tips to help you get your items out of your garage quicker. Update or add listings today!

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