I don't know about Nextdoor, but I have texted with buyers and sellers on Facebook Marketplace - sometimes at my request, sometimes at theirs. I find it easier to text than go to their site and use their messaging. I've never suspected a problem, or had a problem. So far, at least.

I don't know if there's any danger in texting, but they may not have messaging alerts enabled and have to check in to the website, which is inconvenient. Most of the initial responders never follow up, even when you are offering items for free.

Worst case is they get your phone number which is around on the internet anyway. Just don't give them anything in the way of personal info until you have confirmed they are real. I have used text as well as opposed to the messengers on various platforms. I just choose ignore the scammers who ask about shipping said items.

Sherry--doesn't texting someone reveal the phone number anyhow?

Yes, but if you text the code they send back to them, you are agreeing to Google phone in your name.

Google "phone scam".

To clarify Sherry's comment and make it easier for people to learn what she's referring to, check out this article on the Federal Trade Commission website:

The Google Voice scam: How this verification code scam works and how to avoid it

Thanks for the headsup. I do some selling and buying online and use messenger with no issues. No one ever asked for my phone number and I would find it odd if they did. My first thought is that they just wanted to TALK; well, I don’t want to talk.

Now I certainly won’t provide it.

I couldn't remember the logistics of the scam but I am very aware that when someone wants to text ( esp if you are already communicating via messenger on FB) it is often scammy.

I avoid it .