Craigslist is still one of the most effective online marketplaces for reaching local buyers, but many sellers struggle with one common issue: ghosting. This happens when your ad is technically posted but doesn’t show up in search results — meaning buyers never see it.

In 2025, Craigslist’s filters have become smarter, and avoiding ghosting requires following the right strategies. Here’s everything you need to know.

What is Craigslist Ghosting?

Ghosting occurs when Craigslist’s system flags an ad as spam or suspicious. Instead of rejecting it outright, Craigslist allows you to publish it but prevents it from being visible to others.

This can waste hours of work and hurt your sales if you’re posting regularly.

Why Does Craigslist Ghosting Happen?

Here are the most common reasons in 2025:

  • Duplicate Ads – Posting the same title, description, or images repeatedly.

  • Posting Too Often – Overloading the same category or city in a short time.

  • Suspicious IP Address – Posting from multiple distant locations too quickly.

  • Spammy Titles/Keywords – Overusing capital letters, symbols, or “trigger words.”

  • Inconsistent Accounts – New accounts posting high volume right away.

Best Practices to Avoid Craigslist Ghosting in 2025

1. Vary Your Content

  • Use slightly different titles and descriptions.

  • Rotate images — don’t recycle the same photo set too often.

  • Add local references to make ads look authentic.

2. Stick to a Posting Schedule

  • Don’t post 10 ads at once.

  • Instead, use a tool like DoPost.io to schedule ads at different times of day.

  • Target peak hours (early morning, evening) for maximum visibility.

3. Use a Reliable IP Setup

  • If posting in multiple cities, use proxies or VPNs carefully.

  • Keep your posting locations consistent with your account.

4. Keep Your Accounts Healthy

  • Start slow with new accounts (2–3 ads/day).

  • Build trust before scaling to bulk posting.

  • Verify emails and keep login info secure.

5. Use Automation Tools Safely

Platforms like DoPost.io help prevent ghosting by:

  • Detecting duplicate ads before posting.

  • Randomizing posting times.

  • Allowing unique templates per category/location.

  • Tracking visibility and engagement.

Final Thoughts

Craigslist ghosting can be frustrating, but with the right approach, it’s completely avoidable. By varying your ads, posting on a schedule, and using trusted tools like DoPost, you can keep your listings live, visible, and profitable in 2025.