How Mountain Barter Works
Barter is the oldest deal there is. Here's how we make it easy in the foothills.
1. List what you've got
Goods, skills, or services — eggs, firewood, carpentry, haircuts, anything you make, grow, or do. Post it as an offer. Need something instead? Post a want — a simple "WANTED: seasoned firewood" works great. Add photos; real eggs and real firewood are what make people reply.
2. Browse what neighbors need
Filter by category, offer/want, and area — Mariposa, Oakhurst, Coarsegold, Ahwahnee, North Fork, Madera, and everywhere between. Check a trader's profile to see their completed trades and how long they've been around.
3. Propose the trade
Hit "Propose a Trade" on any listing and say exactly what you're offering. Be specific — "I'll trade a 2-ft carved sign for 4 dozen eggs over 2 months" beats "sign for eggs." You two work out the details in messages, agree, and meet up. When it's done, mark the trade completed — that builds your trade count and your reputation.
Safety tips
- Meet in public places for first trades — the feed store parking lot beats a stranger's driveway.
- Check a trader's completed-trade count and member-since date before you commit.
- Agree on specifics before you meet: what, how much, when, where.
- For services at your property, get to know the trader first — start with a small trade.
- See something sketchy? Use the report button on any listing. We remove bad actors.
- No cash, no shipping, no wire transfers — if someone asks for money, report them.