Selling used furniture is a practical way to declutter, contribute to a sustainable economy, and generate extra income. While the process of setting a fair price and finding the right buyer can seem complicated, it is manageable with a clear approach. This guide provides a path to help you navigate each step, ensuring your pre-owned pieces find a new home and you get the best possible return.
Prepare Your Furniture for Sale
To maximize profit, present your furniture in its best condition, starting with a thorough cleaning. For wood pieces, use a mild wood cleaner and follow with a polish to restore its sheen. Upholstered items may require a fabric-safe cleaner for spot treatments or professional cleaning, while a dedicated conditioner can revive leather.
Addressing minor repairs increases an item’s appeal. Tighten any loose screws on table legs or cabinet handles, and use wood markers or wax fill sticks to conceal minor scratches. If a cushion has lost its shape, adding new stuffing can restore its form and comfort.
Know when not to perform repairs. If you suspect an item is a valuable antique, altering its original state could diminish its value. The patina, a natural finish that develops over time, is often desirable to collectors, so it is better to sell such pieces as-is.
Determine the Right Price
Setting the right price is a balance between an item’s worth and a timely sale. A common starting point is 50-80% of the original retail price, depending on its condition. For older furniture, you may need to adjust this price downward based on its age and wear.
Next, research what similar items are selling for on online marketplaces and local classifieds. Pay close attention to pieces that have successfully sold to get a realistic sense of the current demand. Analyzing these listings will help you understand how factors like brand, material, and style influence the final sale price.
Several factors will determine your final asking price. The condition is the most important; items in “like new” condition command higher prices, while those with noticeable flaws will need a reduction. The brand also plays a role, as designer names add value, and currently popular styles like minimalist or mid-century modern often sell more quickly.
Create an Appealing Listing
High-quality photographs are the most important part of an attractive listing. Stage the item in a clean, decluttered space with plenty of natural light and a neutral background. Avoid using props, as they can distract from the furniture and make it harder for buyers to envision in their own space.
Your photography should be comprehensive, capturing the furniture from multiple angles to give a complete view. Take close-up shots of unique details like hardware or wood grain, as these highlight craftsmanship. Be transparent by also taking clear photos of any imperfections, such as scratches or stains, to build trust with buyers.
Your written description should complement the photos. Start with a title that includes keywords like the style, brand, and furniture type. In the body, provide precise measurements (height, width, and depth), and mention the materials, age, and any interesting history. Reiterate any flaws you photographed to set accurate expectations and avoid disputes.
Choose Where to Sell
Selecting the right sales channel depends on your furniture’s style, value, and how much effort you are willing to put into the sale. Different platforms cater to different types of items and buyers.
Local Online Marketplaces
Platforms like Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist are popular for selling locally. Their primary advantage is the large, local audience, which simplifies logistics to a pickup model and eliminates shipping costs. However, the high volume of listings means more competition, and you should be prepared for haggling.
Niche Furniture Websites
For higher-end or vintage pieces, specialized websites like Chairish and AptDeco are a better fit, as they attract serious buyers. These curated sites often result in higher sale prices. The trade-off is that these companies charge commission fees and may require you to handle shipping logistics, though some offer assistance.
Local Consignment and Antique Shops
If you prefer a hands-off approach, local consignment or antique stores are an excellent option. These businesses handle the entire sales process, from pricing to dealing with customers. This convenience comes at a cost, as the shop will take a percentage of the final sale price.
Garage Sales and Flea Markets
Garage sales and flea markets are best for selling multiple items quickly, often at lower prices. This option is ideal if you are decluttering or have several pieces that are not high-value. The main benefit is the immediacy of the sale, but prices are lower, and you must run the sale yourself.
Manage the Sale and Logistics
Once you find a buyer, clear communication is necessary. Respond to inquiries promptly and be prepared to answer questions. For negotiations, decide on your lowest acceptable price beforehand so you can bargain confidently but politely, even if you receive a low offer.
Arranging pickup or delivery requires coordination. For pickups, confirm the date, time, and location, and be upfront about challenges like heavy items or stairs. If offering delivery, factor the cost into your price and communicate the details clearly to the buyer.
Safety is a priority during the transaction. When using online marketplaces, vet potential buyers by checking their profiles and ratings. Opt for secure payment methods like cash or digital apps over personal checks. For home pickups, ensure you are not alone, or arrange to meet in a well-lit, public place if you are uncomfortable with buyers coming to your home.