iMac preparation/erase hard drive and reinstall Mac OS

This is the problem. I can’t get the computer in recovery.

Blue tooth keyboard and mouse still work. There is even a different sound when holding down the command + R keys before the Apple logo comes back on.

This is where I am stuck. Can’t get into recovery....

It is Command key, + key and R key, right? Just in case I missed something in the instructions.

But, yet, nothing.....

Thanks

I probably was not clear.

the command key and the R key.

The instructions I received had the keys highlighted like this, Command + R......

So, The keys I tried were command, +, and R. Nothing.

Then I tried just the keys, Command and R....Still nothing...

Okay. So now I feel dumb as ****.....

After trying again with the keys you suggested, still, nothing..

So. Now, remember, I have never done this, usually have all this done if I buy at our local shop, but, wanted to do this...

The instructions that came with the packaging to send back the iMac only states to "restart" the mac. Which is what I did and held down the command and R keys...Nothing.....So. I think to myself, shutdown and restart and hold down the keys.

Bingo.....That worked....

Keep in mind, to me, just plain restart, means just do a restart. Not shut down and restart. The instructions should be a bit more clear because I took it literally as others may do.....

Came back up in recovery mode, erased the hard drive and re-installed macOS.

All my info is gone except my name still comes up on the mac, but, no contacts, no info. signed out of iTunes and deauthorized, turned off Find My Mac, etc.

So. Would I be correct that this mac is safe to return and the fact that just my name comes up, something like Craig's mac or whatever, would not hurt the trade?

Thank you for your help and patience with me.

I do appreciate it.

Craig

Thanks again..

Really appreciate your patience and help...

It will be on it's way for trade....