Everything There is to Know About Buying And Selling Second-Hand Furniture Online

Online marketplaces have made it exceedingly simple to match buyers and sellers when it comes to furniture. If you want to buy and sell second-hand furniture online and have never done so, the process can be challenging. That’s where this handy guide comes in. 

First,  let's talk about buying second-hand furniture. Here are just a few ways going the used route will benefit you. 

Save more money: Pre-owned furniture doesn't mean shabby discards. If you're lucky, there's always used furniture that’s as good as new. You save money by finding high-quality items at a fraction of the cost. Besides, high-quality stuff can last a lifetime. And you can get it for a steal!

Endless choices: Online marketplaces offer a wide range of furniture designs that cater to every taste. Chances are you’ll find something that meets your needs and aesthetic preferences no matter how niche. 

Sustainability: Buying pre-owned furniture helps to minimize waste by giving it a new lease of life. Also, second-hand items come without new packaging, which usually ends up in landfills, a huge no-no. 

Things to Consider Before You Buy Second-hand Furniture Online

If you’ve decided to take the used-furniture route, we applaud you! If you’re a newbie, here are a few tips that will make your shopping experience better: 

1. Look for Quality

Although online platforms offer convenience, it can be a challenge to assess quality. Even though you're buying something pre-owned, it should still be in good condition and structurally sound to make it worthwhile. Ask for detailed information on the item’s condition and multiple photos that cover every angle. If possible, inspect the item carefully for any signs of damage or wear. Check for wobbly legs, loose joints, or sagging cushions.

2. Do Your Research

Certain furniture brands and materials are known for their durability and longevity. Try to find out the original price to assess its value which will help you negotiate a better deal. Choose furniture made from solid wood, metal, or high-quality upholstery fabrics. 

3. Shipping or Pickup

Consider the logistics of bringing the furniture home. Some sellers offer shipping options, while others might require you to pick up the item. For instance, Barnything has a furniture delivery service that delivers your items to your doorstep.

4. Measurements

There's nothing more disappointing than finding the perfect piece, only to realize it doesn't fit through your door! Measure the item’s dimensions and the doorways, corridors, and any tight corners it will need to go through.

5. Seller Reputation

When buying furniture online, check the seller's reputation and reviews. A reliable seller will have positive feedback, which can give you confidence in your purchase. Similarly, use reliable and credible platforms or marketplaces such as Barnything.

Selling Second-hand Furniture Online

What if you’re not looking to buy, but sell second-hand furniture online?  If you’re wondering how to get rid of old furniture, then selling online should be one of your top options. Beyond the spare cash in your pocket, selling your furniture online has many benefits. It helps extend the life of your items instead of generating waste, and you get the satisfaction of knowing your item is sparking joy in another family. And who knows? You might even make a new friend! 

Selling your second-hand furniture online might sound daunting if you’ve never done it, but it’s easier than you might think! Here are a few things to keep in mind: 

1. Be honest: When putting your old furniture up for sale online, be open and honest about any scuffs, scratches, or small damage. Accurate descriptions help potential customers trust you and create reasonable expectations. Highlight any unique selling points, key features, and design elements that are attractive. Make sure to include the item’s measurements and dimensions. Plus, you don’t want to end up with the shame of a bad review, do you? 

2. Pro–level pictures: “A picture is worth a thousand words" is very true. Take crisp, well-lit pictures of your piece from various angles and highlight its qualities and any flaws. Clear and attractive images help draw in potential buyers.

3. Get chatty: Respond to any inquiries promptly and be open to negotiating on price. Answering questions quickly and honestly can help land a sale. If you can’t respond immediately, state upfront when potential buyers can expect to hear back from you.  

4. Safety and privacy: Put your safety first by scheduling meetings with potential customers in open spaces or throughout the day. Wait until you feel comfortable with the transaction before disclosing any personal information.

5. Be clear: Outline the terms of the sale clearly. Specify whether the price is negotiable, who covers potential shipping or transportation costs, and the expected payment methods.

6. Choose the right place: Choose the right online platform to list your furniture. Barnything is an excellent choice with easy-to-use features that will help you to get rid of old furniture easily. You can even swap or giveaway your furniture if the mood strikes using Barnything’s barter or giveaway listing option. 

If you are in the market to buy and sell secondhand furniture online, we hope this article has been a useful place to kick off the process. Happy hunting!