Facebook Marketplace
If you haven’t shopped FB Marketplace yet, are you living under a rock? I mean seriously, friends, there are so many gems to be found. Maybe this post will give you just the push that you need!
For what it’s worth, here’s what I’ve learned as a frugal and frequent FB Marketplace shopper.
1. Check inventory frequently. Like multiple times a day if you are searching for something specific. The good stuff goes quickly. So don’t hem haw around. Be ready with an offer, a proposed time for pickup, and the means to take it off their hands quickly. Sellers can and will defer to another buyer if you drag your feet.
2. Know what you’re willing to pay, and don’t be offended if the seller doesn’t like your offer. You can always negotiate if they make a counter offer—so leave a little wiggle room. Also, be aware that popular items which are well priced will sell within hours. There are lots of FB Marketplace stalkers just like me. So don’t get greedy trying to get an even bigger bargain if you have your heart set on an item and you know it’s a good price.
3. Make sure you have the proper size vehicle and the appropriate size muscles to successfully pick up your piece. Don’t assume that the seller has the interest or ability to help you load your purchase. And make sure to understand where it is located—is the drive worth it? Is it on the third or first floor? Basement? Garage? These details matter. Trust me.
4. When searching for an item, broaden your search. If you’re looking for an antique dresser, sure you can use those exact words. But chances are those sellers also know the retail value of their piece. Instead, consider other broader terms like, “dresser,” “old dresser,” “vintage dresser”. Same idea with a cabinet…think “armoire,” “cupboard”. You catch my drift? If you think more broadly, you’re less likely to miss a great deal.
5. In terms of pickup, if you choose to go to a residence, do not go alone. That’s just common sense. My preference is to meet at a chosen, neutral location, but not every seller has the means or transportation to lift a piece of furniture and meet you somewhere more public. If that’s the case, then make arrangements that can keep you both safe. I like to do porch pick ups or make sure the piece of furniture is in the foyer or garage. This keeps things more impersonal and efficient for pickup. But it goes without saying, ladies be smart—going alone isn’t a safe option.
6. Make sure you have multiple avenues for payment. Some sellers prefer Venmo. Others want cash. Just know their terms up front and do your best to honor them. Sometimes a deal can be dependent on their preferences. And sometimes in negotiations, cash is king. Never be afraid to make a cash offer with same day pickup. Often, sellers are looking to unload things quickly, and delaying pickup can derail a deal quickly.
7. Be flexible. You may be looking for 4 matching chairs. But consider 2 sets of matching pairs. Maybe a cabinet can work where you had your heart set on a dresser. Don’t think of art work as just paintings—think outside the box…a giant map can be affordable wall art. If you’re not flexible, then be prepared to wait—and that’s okay, too. Just know that you may not get exactly what you wanted in a timely manner. But you can probably find something pretty close to what you need if you open your mind.
8. Know your limits. If you’re not handy, don’t buy a fixer upper piece of furniture with the hopes of one day getting to it. That’s just not gonna happen, even with your best intentions. If you’re not into DIY, then carefully look at the condition of the piece in the description. Nothing is worse than buyer’s remorse on an item that you will now have to sell. And there’s no shame in buying something that will move right into your home—know your tolerance or lack of tolerance for projects.
9. If you are gonna sell pieces, take multiple, decent quality photos. Write a detailed description with measurements included. If there are imperfections, list them when describing condition. And be upfront about the payment you expect and your desire for a timely pickup. Also, many sellers include, “no holds” or “immediate pickup”. And also be sure to never arrange a pickup at your home if you are alone. Again, this is common sense, but it must be said. If you’re not comfortable with a home pickup, set a neutral location and stick to it. And also be aware that there are flaky people on FB Marketplace. Just like there are flaky people everywhere. So don’t be disappointed if there are little hiccups in the process—its par for the course. But if it’s not your cup of tea, then steer clear of this process.
Facebook Marketplace will be your new best friend, friends! It’s honestly like stumbling upon the best estate sale in the universe. But it’s even better, because you’re browsing from the comfort of your very own home.
So let me know if you have any other burning questions. I’m happy to answer. But I’m gonna give you fair warning—if your’e looking in the Cincinnati area, I’m a better stalker than you. Believe that.