Content & Formatting Guidelines:
- Catchy Headline: Create a clear, descriptive, and attention-grabbing title that includes relevant keywords (e.g., "2015 Honda Civic EX - Low KMs" instead of "Car for Sale").
- Detailed Description: Provide essential information like the item's condition, features, price, and location. Honesty about any defects builds trust.
- High-Quality Visuals: Include multiple clear, well-lit photos of the actual item. Avoid blurry images or stock photos.
- Clear Language: Use simple, direct language and avoid jargon or excessive abbreviations. The tone should be formal and factual.
- Contact Information: Clearly state how potential buyers can reach you (e.g., phone number, email address, or the platform's internal messaging system).
- Appropriate Categorization: Post your ad in the correct category to reach the right audience.
- Call to Action: Encourage the reader to act with a clear call to action, such as "Call now!" or "Email for details".
Prohibited Content & Behavior:
- Illegal Items/Services: Do not post anything that violates any local, national, or international laws.
- Prohibited Items: Follow the platform's specific rules regarding items that cannot be sold (e.g., certain weapons, adult content, or specific financial products).
- Spamming: Avoid creating multiple ads for the same item or repeatedly posting the same ad to keep it at the top of results (platforms usually have renewal features for this purpose).
- False Information: Do not post false, misleading, or fraudulent information.
- Personal Attacks/Harassment: Material that is discriminatory, defamatory, abusive, or threatening is not allowed.
- Off-Platform Transactions (if prohibited): Some sites may require transactions to use their secure payment or communication systems. Check the platform's rules regarding payment methods and communication.
Safety & Trust:
- Protect Personal Information: Never share sensitive details like your home address or financial information in the ad description itself.
- Secure Transactions: For physical exchanges, meet in a busy, public location, like a coffee shop or a police station's "safe exchange zone".
- Secure Payment Methods: Be cautious of overpayment scams or requests for unusual payment methods (e.g., wire transfers, personal checks). Cash for small transactions or secure payment platforms with buyer/seller protection is recommended.
- Report Suspicious Activity: Use the platform's reporting features to flag any ads or users that seem suspicious or violate guidelines.
