5 key considerations before you buy a used phone

Buying a used phone can be a heck of a deal, but you need to know what to look out for.

When it's time to upgrade a phone, most of us go to our carriers to see the deals they have to offer. But you also shouldn't forget to shop around the bustling used smartphone market. You can find your next great phone at a discounted price by buying used, but we've got some tips to consider before hopping on Craigslist and buying the first phone that pops up.

Always inspect the phone in person if possible

Honest folks will properly photograph and report any and all damage on the phone in their online ad, but if you're buying a used phone from a local seller you'll want to do a full inspection before sealing the deal. If you're planning to meet up in public (always choose a public location for in-person meetups), be sure to take the time to look over the device thoroughly.

Look for all signs of wear but especially any dents along the side or chips in the screen. Since it's very likely the phone will not be under warranty, you don't want to end up buying a phone that's on its last legs or the verge of some serious issues. Also always make sure the phone powers on properly and that it doesn't have any security locks — a telltale sign that someone's trying to sell you a stolen phone.

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