Suspicious Seller

[irfan.in.tx]

A few weeks ago, I came across this ad on Craig's List for a Canon EF 28-135 lens, new in box for $ 250 (Amazon's price was around 430 or so). The ad had a cut-paste description from a web merchant.

Called the guy, and talked about it. Asked him if he had a receipt and why he was selling it. He said he didn't have a receipt because it was a gift from his sister. Apparently he was selling the lens because he would have to use a big camera, and he would rather use a small camera!

He told me the approximate area where he was (I-45 and SH 249 in North Houston), and told me to call when I got to the area so he could give me directions on where to meet.

The whole thing smelled fishy, and I decided to skip it.

Has this happened to others?

[danchez]

always go with your gut instinct, you did the right thing. More than likely it was stolen or who knows...

[Rson]

Skip it.

[Abel]

not worth it.

[JosShavaughn]

I don't think it sounds too suspicious, his reasoning sounds alright to me, but I wouldn't go to someone's HOUSE to buy anything off of craigslist. I'd ask to meet in a very public parking lot.

Is he old or something, maybe he's not familiar w/ the do's and don'ts of craigslist/the internet.

[ggeen]

If you read the Craig's list suggestions, even they tell you to meet in a public place. The few items I sold I met the buyer in the parking lot of a: 7-Eleven, bank, and Chinese restaurant. Always on a corner with multiple entrances/exits.

Remember, safety is a two way street.

[CaptainG]

That lens is included as the kit lens with some cameras like the 7D. I got one with mine and it still sits unopened in the box. The upcharge for the lens was about $250, so it might not be a bad deal. If you were still interested, you could have him meet you at a public place of your choosing.