What factors should I consider when buying a used cell phone?

What factors should I consider when buying a used cell phone?

TJ McClearin (Business Manager, Infinity Wireless, LLC) gives expert video advice on: What factors should I consider when choosing a cell phone?; How can I find a camera phone that fits my needs?; What kind of phone should I buy if I only need it for emergencies? and more...

Number 1: make sure that the phone that you are purchasing is compatible with your network. For instance, if you are with Verizon, you need to buy a Verizon phone. Sometimes though, sites like Craigslist and eBay sell phones that are used; the individual sells them. If the phone is stolen or is black listed, it actually keeps the serial number that identifies your phone on the network from being added on to the network, and there is no way to remove it. So, you ended up paying for the device, you get it in the mail, you call Verizon saying, “Hey I want to give you my new device serial number.” and they say, "Uh oh, sorry it's been black listed and nothing I can do about it.” So, one of the things you want to make sure of is to get the serial number of the device you are purchasing and call the carrier before you actually finish the transaction. To check and make sure the phone hasn't been blacklisted and is enabled to be used in the network.