Writing a Great Description: Tips, Length Limits, and What to Include
The description is where you convince buyers to message you instead of scrolling past your ad on markto.ch. A strong description builds trust, answers questions before they’re asked, and reduces back-and-forth. A weak or empty one makes even a good photo look suspicious.
Length Limits on markto.ch
- Maximum: usually 1,000–2,000 characters (about 150–300 words)
- Recommended sweet spot: 150–400 characters (2–6 short paragraphs)
- Too short (<50 characters): looks lazy or incomplete → fewer responses
- Too long (>600 words): buyers skim or skip → keep it scannable
What to Always Include (Core Structure)
- Opening line – Hook & main facts (1 sentence)
State exactly what you’re selling + key selling point.
Example: “Selling my barely used iPhone 14 Pro 128GB in Deep Purple – purchased 8 months ago, full warranty remaining.” - Condition & history (1–2 sentences)
Be 100% honest – buyers value transparency.
- “Like new, no scratches, always in case”
- “Good condition, small scratch on back (see photo 4), otherwise perfect”
- “Used daily for 2 years, fully functional, battery health 88%”
- Specifications & features (bullet points work best)
List the most important details buyers search for:
- Storage / RAM / Year / Mileage
- Accessories included (box, charger, case)
- Any upgrades or extras
- Technical specs (screen size, engine, material, etc.)
- Reason for selling (optional, 1 sentence)
Adds trust and context.
- “Upgrading to newer model”
- “Moving abroad, no longer need it”
- “Barely used – bought but never really needed”
- Pickup / delivery / payment info (closing lines)
- “Pickup preferred in Zürich 8001 or can meet at HB”
- “Cash on pickup, no shipping”
- “Flexible on meeting times, weekends best”
Best-Practice Tips
- Use short paragraphs (2–4 lines max) – mobile users skim
- Add bullet points for specs – much easier to read than walls of text
- Include keywords naturally – buyers search for “iPhone 14 Pro Max 256GB”, “IKEA Kallax shelf”, “VW Golf 7 GTI”
- Write in clear, friendly language – no slang or excessive emojis
- Mention what’s included / excluded – charger, original box, keys, manuals, etc.
- Be specific about defects – “small dent on left side” is better than “some signs of use”
- End with a call to action – “Feel free to message with questions!” or “Looking for quick sale – first come first served”
Good Description Example (Smartphone)
iPhone 14 Pro 128GB Deep Purple – like new condition, bought in March 2024.
Always used with case and screen protector, no scratches or dents. Battery health 96%, full Apple warranty until March 2025.
Comes with: original box, unused charger, receipt.
Reason for selling: upgrading to 16 Pro.
Pickup in Bern 3000 or can meet at main station. Cash only, no shipping.
Message me if interested – happy to send more photos or answer questions!
Bad Description Examples & Fixes
Bad: “Handy zu verkaufen, guter Zustand”
→ Fix: Add model, storage, condition details, pickup info
Bad: “Super günstig! Neuwertig! Schnell zuschlagen!!!”
→ Fix: Remove spam style, add real specs and honest condition
Final Checklist Before Saving
- [ ] Starts with brand/model + key fact
- [ ] Honest condition statement
- [ ] Bullet points for specs
- [ ] Includes pickup/payment details
- [ ] Under 400 characters (ideal length)
- [ ] No prohibited content (hate speech, illegal items, personal contact info outside rules)
A great description answers 80% of buyer questions before they even message you — it saves time and builds instant trust. Take 2–3 minutes to write it well.
Your ad is now much more likely to sell quickly on markto.ch!