Local sales are fun and friendly — a little common sense keeps them that way.
MyLocalStops helps you find and post local events, but the sales, markets, and shows themselves are run by the people hosting them. We don't verify attendees, vet buyers or sellers, or supervise any event. Use your own judgment, and use these tips whether you're shopping or hosting.
For shoppers
- Go in daylight when you can, and tell someone where you're headed — especially if you're planning a multi-stop route.
- Bring a buddy for estate sales, big pickups, or anything at a private home.
- Carry small bills. Don't flash a large amount of cash, and keep your wallet or phone secure in a crowd.
- Trust your gut. If a location, listing, or situation feels off, leave. No deal is worth your safety.
- Inspect before you buy. Sales are usually final and as-is. Check electronics, test moving parts, and look items over in good light.
- Moving something big? Bring help, straps, and a vehicle that fits it. Don't lift beyond what's safe.
- Follow parking and venue rules. Don't block driveways or neighbors, and respect the host's property.
- Check the weather and confirm the event is still on before a long drive — outdoor sales can move or cancel.
For sellers and hosts
- Use address privacy for home sales. When you post, turn it on so your exact street address only appears shortly before start. Shoppers see the neighborhood first.
- Don't sell alone. Have at least one other person with you, especially for higher-value items or estate sales.
- Secure your home. Lock doors to areas that aren't part of the sale, and keep pets and children safely away from traffic and strangers.
- Put valuables away. Keep medications, mail, keys, IDs, and anything personal out of sight and out of reach.
- Handle cash carefully. Keep it on you in a pouch or apron, make change from a small float, and take larger amounts inside periodically. Be cautious with large bills and know how to spot counterfeits.
- Set the terms up front. Post your hours, pricing style, payment methods, and whether early birds are welcome — it prevents pressure and confusion.
- Watch for scams. Be wary of overpayment offers, "I'll send someone to pick it up and pay you back," or requests to take a deal off-platform and wire money.
Meeting people and payments
Most local buyers and sellers are friendly neighbors — but you're still meeting strangers. Meet in the open, keep first meetings in public or visible areas when possible, and don't feel obligated to invite anyone inside your home. For payments, cash is simplest; if you use a payment app, confirm the money has actually arrived before handing over an item, and never share bank login details, card numbers, or one-time codes.
Protect your personal information
Only put in a public listing what you're comfortable making public. Don't include your full home address in the description if you're using address privacy, and avoid sharing phone numbers, schedules, or details that reveal when your home is empty. We will never ask for your password.
Children, pets, and accessibility
If you're bringing kids or pets, keep them close — sales often have driveways, parking, and heavy items in motion. Hosts, please keep walkways clear and flag any hazards. If you have accessibility needs, message the host ahead of time to ask about parking and terrain.
In an emergency
If you ever feel unsafe or witness a crime, contact local authorities. In the U.S., call 911 for emergencies. Your safety comes before any transaction.
Report a problem
If a listing looks fraudulent, unsafe, or misleading, or someone behaves inappropriately, tell us. Use the contact form or email support@mylocalstops.com with the event name and details, and we'll review it. Reports help keep MyLocalStops safe for everyone.
Hosting an event? Please also read our Seller Guidelines. Your use of MyLocalStops is subject to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.