A probably obvious Paypal question...

[KacieB]

If someone wants to send money via PayPal for a gumtree item, should I add postage charges and accept? Or is that potential for being ripped off? Does anyone know?

It's ok but you must make sure that it's a payment for "goods or services" NOT a gift payment (for family or friends). This ensures you get buyer protection, so you're covered if the item doesn't arrive, or if it's not as described.

So either initiate the payment at your end this way, or get the seller to send you an invoice (not a money request) which details the item they want you to pay for.

Great, thank you lottie! I'll work out how to invoice them now

Hi OP........ I meant my advice in terms of a buyers point of view.

Still send an invoice, that's what i do when I sell an item outside of eBay.

It doesn't really allow you to be "ripped off", but it does give the buyer PayPal protection against non delivery and items being misdescribed.

make sure you send tracked and never take paypal for a collected item