Bidder legit? Zip+4 address only (that isn't valid)

[frailb]

I’m selling an iPhone, new seller - so I know I may be targeted for scams. So this forum is helpful!

I rejected a prev bidder because they’re in Nigeria, but shipping address was a Zip+4 address - googled and it was a FF.  This bidder was persistent/pleading until I told them bc I knew they were using a FF. 

This morning, a new person bids. Only 1 feedback from a year ago, but same thing, only listing a Zip+4 in Kenner, LA. I looked it up and it does not lead to a specific mailing address. Seems super suspicious! Any advice?

[powell-collectibles]

If you are going to be nervous about every buyer – and I don’t blame you, given what you are selling you shouldn’t have listed the item.

[frailb]

Good point. Although, I only turned down the prev bidder based on overwhelming advice I received from this forum. So just trying to be wise - and yeah, I may turn to another selling venue if this doesn't work out. But a Zip+4 that leads to nowhere...well, that has to be resolved eventually no?

[ebooksdiva]

Ifyou don’t want to deal with that bidder or receive further messages put them in your Blocked Buyer list problem solved! 

[12345jamesstamps]

Maybe you shouldn't do 'best offer'....

If a potential buyer wants a phone they will come out and just buy it without sending emails.

You shouldn't have a 'best offer on it.

You have '19' watchers...A lot. Someone will buy it.

Because you are an infrequent seller there might be a 30 hold on the funds from the sale.

Keep that in mind as well.

Get rid of 'best offer'. Just my thought.

[albertabrightalberta · Accepted solution]

To add to @12345jamesstamps 's advice to get rid of the best offer, you should also add "immediate payment required. The listing remains active and available to other buyers until payment is complete. 

Once someone buys it, you may get messages from "the buyer" claiming they accidentally gave the wrong shipping address. Often, those messages are NOT from the actual buyer. 

Compare the name of the messenger to the actual buyer's ID and if they're different, block the messenger. If it's the actual buyer who claims to need to change the address, tell the buyer you need to cancel the sale and have to relist. They should update their correct address before making the purchase. 

[12345jamesstamps]

And google the address of the buyer if it is purchased...

[frailb]

OK thank you all! I've relisted it - but removed the "best offers" and will be mindful of the address verification.

[kensgiftshop]

To be honest, with your little selling history, trying to sell an iPhone, it's going to be hard to get a legit buyer.

[frailb]

OK, that's helpful to know