Here are some tips to help you score the best deals and make successful transactions on Facebook Marketplace:
Search Strategically
- Use Specific Keywords: Be as detailed as possible (e.g., “custom curtains” instead of “curtains” or “solid wood dining table” or “Henderson buffet table” instead of “buffet table”). If you have a specific brand in mind, search for that + your item.
- Filter Options: Use filters like location and item condition to narrow down (or expand!) your search. Some of the best items may be worth the drive.
- Save Searches: Set alerts for specific items you’re looking for to get notified when something new is listed.
- Teach Your Algorithm: Save items that fit your vibe, even if they’re somewhat geographically undesirable. This teaches FBMP the kind of items you like so it shows you similar items in the future. I have mine trained so well that I hardly have to search anymore.
Check Frequently
- Timing Matters: The best items often sell quickly, so check Marketplace regularly or turn on notifications for new listings.
- Early Mornings and Evenings: These are often the best times to find newly listed items.
- Become a Weekend Warrior: Personally, I find people are listing items on Fridays, hoping to sell it over the weekend.
Be Ready to Act Fast
- Message Promptly: If you see something you like, send a message immediately. Be sure to read the entire listing because some sellers will say that if it’s still listed, the item is still available, so don’t start out by asking if it’s still available. (Honestly, I don’t know why this is such a faux pas – I’m used to items being sold and sellers not having updated the listing, but some people get really annoyed with the “Is This Still Available?” question.
- Be Polite and Clear: Ask relevant questions about the item without hesitation to show you’re serious. Don’t be afraid to ask for more pictures, but be mindful that others may be asking to buy it during that time.
- Be Ready to Pickup ASAP: Sellers will be willing to work with you if you are able to pickup on their timeline. Often, people are trying to get rid of something ASAP, so they don’t want to wait for you to rent a truck next week when your cousin is there to help. Before making an offer, have a plan for getting the item – especially large and heavy ones and clear your calendar.
Negotiate Wisely
- Offer Fairly: Start with a reasonable offer rather than lowballing. Sellers are more likely to engage with polite buyers. If I do ask for a discount, I do that after seeing photos but not in person. I’ve had people come to my house to purchase something and then want to negotiate there. This feels like a waste of my time, if I had no intention of lowering the price.
- Bundle Discounts: If the seller has multiple items listed, ask if they’d offer a deal for buying more than one.
Know the Market Value
- Research Prices: Check similar listings or retail prices for the item. Be informed, if you are going to offer a lower price, you should have a good reason and not just because you “think” it should be lower.
Be Safe
- Avoid Scams: Unfortunately, scammers can be common on FBMP. When we lived in South Florida, I would get so many scammers on my listings as a seller. Usually, they contact you within minutes of listing something and want to pay you through some third-party app. For some reason, they also have a sob story about needing the item badly. Usually, they are easy to spot, so don’t engage. On the buyer side, a scammy listing might not have any real life photos, be priced way lower than market value, and be asking for your phone number or credit card information to buy it. (Don’t do that). You can also use Google Image search to see if they grabbed the image off the internet to create the listing.
- Keep Safety In Mind: I never pick up something alone when buying online and like to meet them in a public parking lot, if I can, where there are cameras. Sometimes, like for big furniture, that can’t be possible, so I’ll snoop their profile and make sure to bring someone with me. I also Google their address once they give it to me to make sure it’s a safe area and only go in daylight.
Overall, Facebook Marketplace can be a great way to furnish your home, when used correctly. I hope this guide helps you find something you love.
