What is on your list today?
A quick check of Seattle Craigslist offers a peek through the living room and garage windows into Island homes and businesses. Such exploration could bring a glimpse into the psyche of Islanders amid the low-lying clouds of the economic recession. Islanders appear to be cleaning out garages, getting rid of expensive baby clothes and gear, unworn baubles and those things that are loved but remain unused. One such item may be the rare 1981 Lancia Zagato convertible for a mere $1,350. The owner only drives it occasionally now. And the bumblebee-like 2000 Ducati in which the owner finds the handling a bit stiff for his comfort. A fine 18-kt gold Baume & Mercier watch with diamonds is no longer worn but comes in its stylish original box. It is $5,500.
As of March 6, there were 446 items listed with a Mercer Island tag. They range from glassware and decorative pillows for $5 each to $15,000 for a 1997 SeaRay 190 Signature Bowrider power boat with a 5.7 Mercruiser V8 motor and trailer. But there are plenty of interesting items to be found in between.
Original art and sculptures seem to rule the week along with crystal and china. One seller is offering fine carpets in all sizes from countries in the Middle East and beyond. There is a designer wedding dress and a pair of women’s size 12 Facco jeans. A 5-year-old cockatiel is for sale for just $50.
Paintball and airsoft guns are to be had for less than $20. There is a cat drinking fountain for just $25, yes — a cat drinking fountain!
There are cameras, televisions, an Xbox or two, computers, a broadband router and a plethora of tech gear. A book of Benny Goodman 45’s is just $80. A large quartz rock is offered for $359. A commercial Italian espresso coffee grinder sells for $650.
And there is music. A Playskool Busy Ball Popper is for sale, many stringed instruments and two grand pianos: one is a Kawai baby grand with an asking price of $5,999, and the other is a concert grand that the seller claims dates from the 1800s. It is $5,000. Moving expenses are not included.
Along with rearranging furniture, Islanders continue to remodel and upgrade their homes. There are broken concrete steps for free. Two 15-foot mature palm trees are for sale by homeowners who need to tear them out, for $750 each. Again, buyers must move the items themselves.
But fear not, there is a 1996 used city dump truck with just 53,000 miles — a bargain at $8,000, good for all your hauling needs.
