Especially if you're saying you're not in it to make money, having free classifieds on APS would be a good idea. People don't like paying for stuff when there are free alternatives, and the Facebook groups, RCA, Gumtree etc are free. Having free classifieds would increase the number of advertisers which would attract more buyers which would help grow the forum which would allow you to either just enjoy having a larger more active community, or bring in more revenue through site sponsors and paid banner type advertising.
Paid classified type advertising seems counterproductive in the current online herp scene. In my opinion, alternatives to Facebook would be very welcome. As it is, there is little incentive to pay for classifieds here.
Hey man, nice to see some of the good people still lurking here. Good post, my thoughts too.