Buy & Sell Smart

Safe Online Selling & Buying

Every day we hear reports of people successfully selling stuff on our websites. But occasionally we also hear about scammers who surf the classifieds to find potential dupes. The most common type of scam starts out when an overseas or out-of-area buyer pays by cashier’s check (usually for more than the amount of the item) and then requests the balance of the funds via wire transfer. The checks are counterfeit. But before the bank finds out — which can take several days or weeks — the unsuspecting seller has wired hundreds or thousands of dollars to Nigeria or some other distant land, far beyond the reach of local law enforcement.

Although we take proactive steps to combat these scammers, the best defense is a little common sense. Safe Buying & Selling Tips: Buy and sell locally. There’s no substitute for dealing with someone who lives and works in your hometown. Don’t buy an item that you have not seen and touched. Don’t a…

Generator Buyer’s Guide + How to Use a Generator (Safely!)

Generators can be your salvation during a power outage or in locations without electricity but figuring out which generator its best for you can be an intimidating process. Here’s our buying guide on how get a generator that suits your needs and some important tips for safe operation. Determine Your Power Priorities Generator sizes are measured in watts. It’s helpful to start by making a list of all the things you want to keep running during an outage. Often this list will include: Refrigerator Window AC Unit Lights Portable Heater Personal Electronics Typically, a 5000-watt generator is recommended to cover the basics. Manufacturers often have wattage estimate guides online to help you determine precisely your energy needs. Honda has a great one here: https://powerequipment.honda.com/generators/generator-wattage-estimation-guide Determine Which Kind of Generator You Need There are three main kinds of generators. Portable generators are a great value…

How to Choose the Right BBQ Grill for Labor Day

Nothing compares to cooking on an open flame. Whether you're roasting mouth-watering vegetables or grilling juicy steak kabobs, the barbecue is perfect for sealing in the natural flavor. If you are looking to join the millions who already enjoy the barbecue life, or want to replace or upgrade their equipment, a little homework may be in order before being met with the dozens of choices available. The Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association (HPBA) offers a factsheet for grill buying to help narrow down the seemingly endless possibilities. Charcoal or Gas? Stainless Steel or Cast Aluminum? $150 or $500? What's Your BBQ Budget? Setting a budget is a realistic place to begin, as some barbecue grills can cost $1,000+. A good way to establish a budget is to decide where you will be using your grill (backyard, patio, apartment balcony) and consider your space restrictions. This will help narrow down some of the choices and perhaps set a price range for you in the process. The …