Odessa American in Odessa, Texas

Americans unload possessions to make ends meet

Americans struggle with debt and rising prices and turn to online and in person selling to pay bills. Craigslist listings have surged about 70 percent since last July, with March counts nearly doubling to about 15 million. Local sellers cite bills for gas food health care and job losses, selling heirlooms and prized items. Economic stress drives demand for secondhand cars clothing and furniture, while gas prices and a weak job market weigh on families.