What if my device is damaged, locked, or not working?

No Problem! We buy devices in any condition! Brand new, cracked, locked, financed, water-damaged, bent, non functional. If you're still unsure, send us a quick message and we'll let you know what it's worth promptly.

You walk away with cash in hand or receive an instant payment through Zelle or CashApp.

Can I sell more than 1 item?

Absolutely! Sell your phones or devices at once. Just include the details when requesting your quote, and we'll take care of the rest.

We can come to you! After you receive your online quote, we will schedule a convenient appointment at a location near you. There, we will inspect and collect your device and get you paid on the spot!

Fast Process: Get your offer, meet up, walk away with cash in your hand! Top Payouts: We pay top dollar for your device, consistently paying more than the competition in Salt Lake, Utah, and surrounding. Convenience: No stress, no headaches, and no headaches.

Will you take my device?

As your trusted local device buyer, we purchase devices in all conditions. We buy apple products 6 years old or newer and purchase all other electronics 3 years old or newer.

Do you serve my area?

We operate 7 days a week, including most holidays, serving Salt Lake, Utah, and Davis Counties. We come to you, meeting in a safe, public location to exchange your device and get you paid! Fast, easy, and secure.

How To Clear/Reset iPhone Before Selling

Salt Lake Phone Buyer
Oct 7, 2025
3 min read

How to Properly Reset Your iPhone Before Selling It (Step-by-Step Guide)

If you’re planning to sell your iPhone — whether to a local buyer, online company, or store — it’s super important to reset it the right way first. A proper reset protects your personal data, removes your iCloud lock, and ensures the new owner can use it without issues.

Here’s a simple, step-by-step guide on how to back up, sign out, and erase your iPhone safely before selling it.

Step 1: Back Up Your Data

Before you wipe anything, make sure all your important photos, contacts, and messages are saved. You can back up using iCloud or iTunes/Finder.

To back up with iCloud:

Connect your iPhone to Wi-Fi.
Go to Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud > iCloud Backup.
Tap Back Up Now and wait until the process finishes.

To back up with a computer:

Connect your iPhone to your Mac or PC.
Open Finder (on Mac) or iTunes (on Windows).
Select your device and click Back Up Now.

This ensures you don’t lose anything important when you erase your phone.

Step 2: Sign Out of iCloud and Find My iPhone

This step is crucial. If you skip it, your phone stays iCloud locked, and the next owner won’t be able to activate it — meaning most buyers (including us) can’t purchase it as a clean, ready-to-use device.

To sign out:

Go to Settings > [Your Name] > Sign Out.
Enter your Apple ID password.
Tap Turn Off to disable Find My iPhone.

Make sure it fully signs out before moving on.

Step 3: Unpair Any Devices

If you have an Apple Watch or AirPods linked, unpair them before erasing your phone.

On your iPhone, open the Watch app > My Watch > (i) next to your watch > Unpair Apple Watch.

This ensures they’re not still tied to your account.

Step 4: Remove SIM Card (Optional)

If you’re switching phones or carriers, take out your SIM Card. You can use a SIM eject tool or a small paperclip. This step isn’t required for all buyers (especially if the device is eSIM-only), but it’s good practice.

Step 5: Factory Reset Your iPhone

Now that you’re backed up and signed out, it’s time to wipe everything.

Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone.
Tap Erase All Content and Settings.
Enter your passcode if asked.
Tap Continue and confirm.

The phone will erase itself and restart as if it’s brand new — ready for setup or sale.

Step 6: Double Check iCloud Lock

Once it restarts, you should see the “Hello” setup screen.If it still shows an Apple ID email or asks for a password, the iCloud lock wasn’t removed. In that case, sign back in with your Apple ID and repeat Step 2.

Bonus Tip: Clean the Device

Before handing it off, wipe down your phone with a soft microfiber cloth. It may seem small, but clean devices look more appealing and can even help you get a higher offer.

Selling Locally?

If you’re in Salt Lake County, Utah County, Davis County, or Ogden, you can skip the hassle of mailing or dealing with sketchy marketplace buyers.

At Salt Lake Phone Buyer, we pay cash on the spot for iPhone 11 and newer — in any condition. Whether your phone is cracked, financed, or locked, we’ll make you a fair offer and meet at a safe public location.

We can even walk you through the reset process in person if you’re unsure.

Ready to sell your iPhone? Text or call Salt Lake Phone Buyer today for a quick quote and same-day payment. Safe, local, and hassle-free — exactly how selling your phone should be.