Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
General Questions about APA Bazaar
What is APA Bazaar?
APA Bazaar is a leading classified ads platform in Kenya, connecting buyers and sellers across various categories like vehicles, electronics, real estate, jobs, and more. It’s designed to make local trading easy, safe, and efficient.
Where is APA Bazaar based?
APA Bazaar is proudly based in Kenya, serving users nationwide from Nairobi to Mombasa and beyond.
Is APA Bazaar free to use?
Yes, basic features like browsing ads, contacting sellers, and posting standard ads are charged according to subscription packages. Premium features, such as boosting ads for more visibility, may incur a small fee.
What categories are available on APA Bazaar?
We offer a wide range: Vehicles, Electronics, Mobile Phones, Property, Jobs, Services, Fashion, Health & Beauty, Home & Garden, Agriculture, and more.
How can I download the APA Bazaar app?
Our app is available on Google Play Store . Search for “APA Bazaar” and download it for free to access ads on the go.
Account and Registration
How do I create an account on APA Bazaar?
Click “Sign Up” on the homepage, enter your email or phone number, create a password, and verify via SMS or email. It’s quick and free.
Can I sign up using my Facebook or Google account?
Yes, we support social login with Facebook and Google for faster registration.
What if I forget my password?
Go to the login page, click “Forgot Password,” enter your email or phone, and follow the reset link sent to you.
How do I verify my account?
After signing up, you’ll receive a verification code via SMS or email. Enter it to activate your account for full access.
Can I have multiple accounts?
We recommend one account per user to maintain trust. Multiple accounts may lead to suspension if used for fraudulent activities.
How do I update my profile information?
Log in, go to “My Account,” in account settings and edit your details like name, phone, location, or profile picture.
Is my personal information safe on APA Bazaar?
Yes, we use encryption and comply with Kenyan data protection laws to keep your info secure. We never share it without consent.
How do I delete my account?
Contact support via email at support@apabazaar.co.ke with your reason, and we’ll process the deletion within 7 days.
What is a verified seller badge?
It’s a badge for sellers who have verified their identity, building trust with buyers. Apply through your account settings.
Can businesses create accounts on APA Bazaar?
Yes, businesses can register as sellers and post ads for products or services, with options for bulk listings.
Posting Ads
How do I post an ad on APA Bazaar?
Log in, click “Post Ad,” select a category, add title, description, photos, price, and location, then submit for review.
How many photos can I upload per ad?
You can upload up to 10 high-quality photos to showcase your item effectively.
What makes a good ad title?
Keep it clear, descriptive, and include key details like brand, model, and condition (e.g., “Samsung Galaxy S21 – Like New – Nairobi”).
How long does it take for my ad to go live?
Ads are reviewed for compliance and usually go live within 1-2 hours, but it can take up to 24 hours during peak times.
Can I edit my ad after posting?
Yes, go to “My Ads,” select the ad, and edit details. Major changes may require re-review.
How do I delete an ad?
In “My Ads,” select the ad and click “Delete.” Once deleted, it can’t be recovered.
What are premium ads?
Premium ads get boosted visibility, appearing at the top of search results. Purchase via your account for KSh 100-500 depending on duration.
Are there rules for ad content?
Yes, ads must be legal, accurate, and not promote prohibited items like weapons or counterfeit goods. Violators face removal.
How do I add a location to my ad?
During posting, select your Kenyan county and town, or use GPS for precise mapping.
Can I post ads in multiple categories?
No, each ad should fit one primary category. Duplicate postings may be removed.
Promotions and Bumping Ads
What are promoted ads on APA Bazaar?
Promoted ads are premium listings that get higher visibility by appearing at the top of search results and category pages, increasing views and inquiries significantly.
How do I promote an existing ad?
Go to “My Ads,” select the ad you want to promote, click “Promote” or “Boost,” choose your plan, and complete payment via M-Pesa.
What payment options are available for promotions?
We offer flexible plans: Weekly (KSh 70), Monthly (KSh 300), Quarterly (KSh 900), Six Months (KSh 1,800), and Yearly (KSh 3,600). All payments are securely processed via M-Pesa.
What is the difference between weekly, monthly, and longer promotion plans?
All plans provide the same top placement and boosted visibility. Longer plans (quarterly, six months, yearly) offer better value with lower cost per day.
Can I upgrade or extend my promotion plan?
Yes, if your current promotion is active, you can extend it or upgrade to a longer plan. The new plan starts immediately after payment.
What happens when my promotion period ends?
Your ad returns to standard listing position. You can renew the promotion anytime from “My Ads.”
What is bumping an ad?
Bumping moves your ad to the top of the category as if it were newly posted, giving it a fresh boost in visibility for quick sales.
How much does it cost to bump an ad?
Bumping costs KSh 100 per bump, payable via M-Pesa.
How do I bump my ad?
In “My Ads,” select the ad, click “Bump,” confirm payment of KSh 100, and your ad will instantly move to the top.
How often can I bump an ad?
You can bump an ad as often as you like, but we recommend waiting at least 24 hours between bumps for best results.
Is bumping different from promoting an ad?
Yes—bumping is a one-time refresh to the top (KSh 100), while promotion provides ongoing top placement for the chosen period.
Can I combine bumping with a promotion plan?
Yes, promoted ads can still be bumped for an extra push during high-competition periods.
Do promoted or bumped ads get more views?
Yes, users report 5-10x more views and faster sales with promoted ads, and immediate spikes after bumping.
Are promotion fees refundable?
No, promotion and bumping fees are non-refundable once activated, as the visibility boost starts immediately.
How will I know my promotion or bump was successful?
You’ll receive a confirmation via email, and you can track increased views in your ad statistics dashboard.
Buying and Selling
How do I search for items on APA Bazaar?
Use the search bar with keywords, filters for price, location, and category to find relevant ads.
How do I contact a seller?
Click “Contact Seller” on the ad page to send a message, call, or WhatsApp if provided.
What if a seller doesn’t respond?
Try following up politely. If no response after 48 hours, report the ad via the “Report” button.
How do I negotiate a price?
Message the seller directly. APA Bazaar doesn’t mediate negotiations but encourages fair dealings.
Can I meet the seller in person?
Yes, but always meet in public places for safety. We recommend verifying items before payment.
How do I leave a review for a seller?
After a transaction, go to the ad and rate the seller from 1-5 stars with optional comments.
What if I receive a faulty item?
Contact the seller first. If unresolved, report to support for mediation.
Can I sell used items on APA Bazaar?
Absolutely! Most ads are for pre-owned goods. Clearly state the condition in your description.
How do I mark an ad as sold?
In “My Ads,” select the ad and click “Mark as Sold” to remove it from active listings.
Are there shipping options on APA Bazaar?
Sellers can arrange shipping via partners like G4S or Posta Kenya. Discuss details with the seller.
Payments and Transactions
Does APA Bazaar handle payments?
Currently, we facilitate connections but payments are direct between buyer and seller, often via M-Pesa or cash.
Is M-Pesa integrated?
Yes, many sellers accept M-Pesa. Enter their till number during discussions.
What fees does APA Bazaar charge for transactions?
We don’t charge transaction fees; only for premium ad features.
How do I avoid payment scams?
Never pay upfront for unseen items. Use secure methods and verify seller details.
Can I get a refund through APA Bazaar?
Refunds are handled by sellers. We can assist in disputes if evidence is provided.
Safety and Security
How does APA Bazaar ensure user safety?
We verify accounts, monitor ads, and provide safety tips. Report suspicious activity immediately.
What are common scams to watch for?
Fake sellers asking for advance payments or phishing links. Always deal locally and inspect items.
How do I report a suspicious ad or user?
Click “Report” on the ad or profile, select the reason, and submit. Our team reviews promptly.
Is my contact info visible to everyone?
No, only to users who contact you via the platform. You control what to share.
What should I do if harassed on the platform?
Report to support. We have a zero-tolerance policy for harassment.
Technical Issues and Support
Why is the app crashing?
Ensure your device is updated. Clear cache or reinstall. Contact support if issues persist.
How do I contact APA Bazaar support?
Email support@apabazaar.co.ke, call +254-XXX-XXXXXX, or use the in-app chat open a ticket in your dashboard.
What if I can’t upload photos?
Check file size (under 5MB each) and internet connection. Try compressing images.
Does APA Bazaar work offline?
You can browse saved ads offline, but posting and messaging require internet.
How often is the platform updated?
We release updates monthly with new features and bug fixes. Enable auto-updates on your app store.