I’m a beginner and have been building two sets, mostly through Callaway Pre-Owned (CPO) and Facebook Marketplace.
Yesterday, I found someone selling a name-brand golf bag for a reasonable (but not too good to be true) price. I made arrangements to see it, changed some plans, and went to check it out.
As soon as the seller pulled out the bag, I could tell it was in rough shape and looked much worse than in the photos. When I asked him about it, he said it wasn’t his bag—he was selling it for his roommate, so he couldn’t speak to the condition (red flag #1).
Then, he set it down and manually pulled the legs out (red flag #2). I inspected it, retracted the legs, then tried tilting the bag to get them to extend normally. They didn’t. I mentioned it, and he said, ‘It’ll definitely work if you have clubs in the bag.’ I doubted it. He took the bag back and forcefully pressed it to the ground, managing to extend the legs about 30%, then said, ‘See, it works fine.’
I thanked him but said I’d pass. He gave me a dirty look and complained that I wasted his time.
Anyway, thanks to those who accurately represent what they’re selling, and screw those who try to scam fellow golfers.
Quinn said:
This is common on Marketplace. It’s not just people trying to screw golfers.
I know it’s common, that’s why I’m thanking those who aren’t scummy.
Hopefully, he’ll learn (as long as he’s honest). I’ve made the mistake of not disclosing all the physical defects of a car I was selling, and I just don’t have the time as a seller, let alone a buyer, to meet up with random people at random times like that.
Nate said:
You can rate sellers on Marketplace, even if you don’t buy. Might be worth it for guys like this.
The rating system on Facebook Marketplace seems all over the place. I’ve had people I spoke with but didn’t meet, and FB let me rate them. Then there’s people I’ve bought from, and the rating option is impossible to find. I’ve also sold to people who said they weren’t prompted to leave a review.
For items that really need a visual inspection and can be faked, tempting as it is, I avoid public commerce, especially Facebook Marketplace. For clubs, I wouldn’t go anywhere other than GlobalGolf or Callaway Pre-Owned just for the authenticity guarantee.
I’m unwilling to drive more than 3 miles for Facebook or Craigslist buys because this kind of thing happens all the time.
This summer, I drove over half an hour to buy a ‘used only once’ pushcart in its box. It was an older Olimar model, and the guy wanted $20 just to get rid of it. When I arrived, it was well-used, covered in dust, leaves, and even a bit of rust. I bought it anyway since renting a pushcart at my local course is $10. I washed it, hosed it off, and worked on the rust, and it was worth it.
But I agree—everyone would be happier if we adhered to truth in advertising!
@Drew
When I was starting, I found a decent-looking pushcart on FB Marketplace. We chatted, agreed on a price, and made a plan to meet after work the next day.
After work, I texted the guy: ‘Oh sorry, I sold it last night.’
I don’t post anything on Marketplace anymore. I don’t need the money, so I list things at a fair price, but people just buy them to resell. Instead, I ask the pro shop if they know anyone looking for X or Y and to have them contact me. I want to sell my stuff to someone who appreciates the great deal and will enjoy what I’m selling.
If you’re not a member, I’d suggest joining Golf Club Traders on Facebook. It’s a solid group for buying stuff, though you still deal with the occasional jerk.
Robin said:
If you’re not a member, I’d suggest joining Golf Club Traders on Facebook. It’s a solid group for buying stuff, though you still deal with the occasional jerk.
I’ve been collecting putters for 20 years, but I fell for a fake Scotty last year. I was just so mad at myself. If you play the auction game, it’s on you, bro. Caveat emptor. At least you caught it—auctions are a dice roll.
Edit: I’m keeping the putter, not passing it on. I thought about listing it as a fake, but I want to keep it as a reminder.
Better than the seller I dealt with who insisted on using PayPal ‘Friends and Family.’ Fortunately, PayPal warns against it, as there are no guarantees or refunds with that option. Be careful out there.
