Secondhand Home Finds + Facebook Marketplace Buying Tips

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I have a confession. I’m a stalker. I stalk Facebook Marketplace like it’s my full-time job.

It’s how I’ve found a lot of great stuff for our new home and saved thousands of dollars in the process.

And you can too.

This post contains affiliate links, which allow me to receive a small commission, at no additional cost to you, if you make a purchase. All opinions are authentic and my own.

My first find was this grand sofa. It was exactly the color and style I was looking for and it was in new condition.

Sofas like this retail for $2,000-$3,000. I paid $350, friends.

It had been in a couple’s beachside vacation home and rarely used.

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I planned to decorate the home in earthy tones and textures so I knew I wanted a large, chunky, wood coffee table.

I found this gorgeous, and heavy, wood coffee table and paid just $375.

I balance the wood with glass for that mix of earthy textures.

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I also found this mid-century modern, blonde wood credenza and round mirror on Facebook Marketplace.

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My other fabulous Facebook Marketplace find was a pair of Ralph Lauren ginger jar lamps.

These vintage beauties resell for $200-$300 each on Etsy and eBay. I snagged the pair for $25.

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So how do you snag great deals like this on Facebook Marketplace?

Stalk It

First, as I said above, I stalk Facebook Marketplace. All. The. Time. Whenever I have a free minute I am scrolling through the options in my area.

Act Fast

If you see something you like, act fast. If you’ve spotted a great find, others have discovered it too.

Convince Them

As someone who has also sold a lot of items on FB Marketplace, do not send the auto-populated message of: “Hi, Is this still available?” The seller is getting about a dozen of those exact same messages and most of those people are not serious buyers. So sellers who are experienced will likely tune out those messages altogether. If the item is listed, assume it is available.

Instead, start with a message that is serious and specific like, “Hi, I’m interested in buying this. Would you be able to meet tomorrow for the exchange?”

Be Smart

Be confident that you know what you are getting before you get there. Not sure if it’s in good condition or if it will fit in your space? Ask that on the front end. As a frequent buyer I get frustrated that no one thinks to put the measurements of anything. So my first question is often for the measurements, especially for something like a piece of furniture or a painting.

And if they do not have enough detailed photos for you to make a good decision, you might want to pass on by it. People who are selling a quality item will include lots of clear photos and they will be transparent when you ask questions.

And always meet in a public place if you can.

Small Home Updates That Makes A Big Impact

More places to get quality secondhand home decor

Consignment stores or flea market type locations

Other resale apps like LetGo, OfferUp, and Mercari, though I cannot say firsthand much about these apps as I have not used them much.

Yard Sales – Though this is my least favorite option. It could take several trips all over town to find that one great piece. The established consignment/flea market stores will yield more reliable payoffs.