I’m sure that you’ve noticed that the real estate classified section of your local newspaper has shrunk in size. Do you know why? 

There’s no doubt that the state of the economy has reduced the number of sellers willing to pay the cost of advertising in news print, but the main reason is that online classified sites like Craigslist and Backpage are so much cheaper (as in free) and easier to use.Why pay for a newspaper ad when you can get more exposure for less hassle by using an online classified site? 

I watched the growth of Craigslist with great interest. In particular I was surprised by the failure of newspaper classifieds to react to their obvious market share loss to Craigslist. I broached this subject with the senior sales manager at my local newspaper, who dismissed Craigslist as a fad. I ended the conversation amused by the arrogance of the newspaper industry. Just a short two years later the real estate classified section has shrunk from 10 pages to less than one page. 

It makes me think that the newspaper fad is over.

The important point is that advertising your home for sale on Craigslist really works and is being done by more and more homeowners. 

Here’s how easy it is to get your home listed on Craigslist: 

1. Open an account with Craigslist. To open an account you need to supply a valid email address and telephone number.
2. Write an ad online and select whether you want your email address to remain anonymous.
3. Verify that you want the listing to be published.
4. Wait for enquiries from potential buyers.

It’s as easy as that!

You can use Craigslist to sell by owner or you can instruct your real estate agent to list with Craigslist.