Safe Buying and Selling in the UK: Practical Tips for Local Trading
Local trading works best when both sides follow simple safety habits. FromOwner.co.uk is built for direct, no commission deals, but sensible precautions will make your experience even better. Here is a UK focused checklist you can apply to every transaction.
Meet in public, well lit places. Choose a busy cafe, a supermarket car park, or a community space with cameras. For property viewings, let someone know where you are going and take a friend when possible.
Trust your instincts. If a message feels off, slow down. Scammers rely on pressure tactics and impossible promises. Keep communication inside the platform until you are comfortable, and do not share sensitive personal data.
Handle payments sensibly. Cash is simple for small items. For higher values, use secure bank transfers and release goods only after you see cleared funds. Avoid overpayment tricks. For vehicles, verify the V5C, service history, and MOT status; for property, request proof of ownership and ID.
Inspect before you agree. Bring a basic checklist. For cars, look for consistent paint, tyre wear, warning lights, and fluid leaks. For property, check damp spots, windows, heating, and water pressure. For electronics, test power on, ports, and battery health.
Keep a record. Save the chat thread and write a simple sale note with item, price, date, and names. It helps if anything needs follow up.
FromOwner promotes real, direct trades between UK users. With these tips, you can buy and sell confidently while enjoying the benefits of a no commission marketplace.