Sell to strangers and actually get paid
Selling to people you don't know usually means no-shows, haggling on the doorstep and the odd bounced payment. On MerkatoHQ the buyer pays into escrow before you hand anything over — so the money is guaranteed to be there.
The buyer pays up front
Before you hand anything over, the buyer has already paid into escrow. You can see the money is there and committed — no more no-shows or "I'll pay you later".
No chargebacks, no reversals
Once the buyer confirms receipt, the funds release to you and stay released. No surprise chargebacks weeks later like on some platforms.
Disputes are reviewed fairly
If a buyer raises a dispute, our team looks at the evidence from both sides — your description, photos and messages count.
Paid the moment they confirm
As soon as the buyer confirms they received the item, the money is released to you. No waiting weeks for a payout to clear.
How a safe sale goes
- List it free. Add photos, a clear description and your price — it takes minutes.
- Buyer pays into escrow. The money is committed before you arrange anything.
- Hand over. Contact details unlock; meet or ship, knowing you'll be paid.
- Get paid. The buyer confirms receipt and the funds release straight to you.
Sell smarter, dispute less
Photograph honestly
Multiple clear photos from several angles, including any flaws. Accurate listings get confirmed faster and win disputes.
Describe it exactly
Condition, size, what is and isn't included. "As described" is the whole game — set expectations and buyers confirm without a fuss.
Build your reputation
Smooth handovers earn reviews and a verified-payout badge, which make future buyers trust you and pay faster.
Price to compete
It is peer-to-peer — buyers compare and send offers. Price good items well and you reach nearby buyers actively searching.
Seller questions, answered
How do I know the buyer will actually pay?
They already have. The buyer pays into escrow before contact details unlock, so you never hand over an item hoping to be paid — the money is committed up front.
When do I get my money?
The moment the buyer confirms they received the item, the funds release from escrow to you. Until then it is held safely, protecting both sides.
What does it cost to sell?
Listing is always free. On a completed sale a small commission is deducted from your payout. Pro and Business plans lower that commission and add higher limits and pricing tools.
Start selling safely
Buying too? See how buyer protection works.