Tips for Selling Outdoor Furniture on Facebook Marketplace
Selling outdoor furniture on Facebook Marketplace can be a great way to earn some extra cash and give your old or unused pieces a second life. Whether you’re downsizing, upgrading your backyard, or just looking to declutter, Facebook Marketplace provides a simple and effective platform to reach local buyers. But just like any other sales platform, knowing how to present your items, engage with potential buyers, and handle the transaction smoothly is key to a successful sale.
In this guide, we’ll cover some practical tips to help you sell your outdoor furniture effectively on Facebook Marketplace. From creating eye-catching listings to negotiating with buyers, these tips will give you the edge in selling your items quickly and for a good price.
1. Clean and Repair the Furniture
Before you take photos and list your outdoor furniture, it’s important to make sure it’s clean and in good condition. Buyers are more likely to purchase items that look well-maintained, even if they’re used. A little cleaning and some simple repairs can go a long way in boosting your chances of making a sale.
Clean the Furniture
Start by giving your furniture a thorough cleaning. For wooden furniture, wipe down surfaces with a damp cloth and use a wood cleaner if needed. For metal or wicker furniture, wash off dirt and debris with soap and water. Be sure to clean cushions and pillows as well—give them a good vacuum and spot clean stains. If the cushions are removable, you could even throw them in the wash if the care label allows.
Make Simple Repairs
Check your furniture for any minor damage like loose screws, rust, or broken slats. Repairing small issues like tightening screws, repainting chipped metal, or fixing a loose leg can make a huge difference in how buyers perceive your furniture. If it’s beyond repair, be upfront about the condition in your listing to avoid complaints or returns later.
- Tip: Highlight any repairs you’ve made in your listing. This shows potential buyers that you’ve taken care of the item and it’s in good shape.
2. Take High-Quality Photos
In the world of online selling, photos are everything. Since buyers can’t physically touch or see the items in person, clear, high-quality photos are your best tool to attract interest. It’s important to showcase your outdoor furniture in the best possible light.
Take Photos in Natural Light
Take your pictures outdoors (or near a window) during the day when there’s plenty of natural light. Good lighting helps your furniture look its best and gives buyers an accurate representation of the item. Try to avoid harsh sunlight, which can create shadows or wash out colors, and instead, aim for soft, even lighting.
Capture Multiple Angles
Take several photos from different angles to give buyers a full view of the furniture. Show the front, back, sides, and any unique features (such as adjustable settings, hidden storage, or comfortable cushions). If your furniture has any imperfections, like a small tear or scuff mark, be sure to include a photo of that as well. Honesty will help you build trust with potential buyers.
Include Close-Ups
If there are any details worth highlighting—such as the texture of the fabric, the wood grain, or decorative features—include close-up shots. These can give buyers a better idea of the quality and style of the furniture.
- Tip: Avoid cluttering the background. Make sure the area around your furniture is tidy, so the focus remains on the item you’re selling.
3. Write a Clear and Honest Description
Your listing description is where you can give buyers more information about your outdoor furniture. The key is to be as clear and honest as possible. Don’t leave out any details, even if the item has some wear and tear. Transparency helps build trust and reduces the chance of buyers feeling disappointed when they see the item in person.
Mention the Brand and Model (If Applicable)
If your outdoor furniture is from a well-known brand, be sure to mention it. This adds credibility to your listing and can help attract buyers who are specifically looking for that brand. If there’s a model name or number, include that information as well.
Describe the Material and Features
Buyers want to know what they’re getting, so describe the materials used in the furniture. For example, if it’s a wicker chair, mention whether it’s synthetic or natural. If it’s a metal table, specify whether it’s made of aluminum, steel, or iron. Highlight any standout features, like adjustable seating, built-in drink holders, or storage compartments.
Be Honest About Condition
While you want to sell the item, it’s important to be upfront about any wear and tear. If there’s a small tear in the cushion or some rust on the frame, mention it in your description and include photos. This helps avoid misunderstandings or disputes later.
- Tip: Use bullet points to make key information easy to read, such as dimensions, material, condition, and any special features.
4. Set a Realistic Price
Pricing your outdoor furniture correctly is crucial. Set a price that reflects the quality, brand, and condition of the item, but also one that is competitive with similar items on Facebook Marketplace. If you’re not sure where to start, check the listings of other similar outdoor furniture pieces in your area to get an idea of what they’re going for.
Consider Original Price and Condition
If your furniture is brand new or nearly new, you may be able to price it closer to the original cost. However, if it’s older, damaged, or showing signs of wear, you’ll need to price it more reasonably. Many buyers will expect a discount on used outdoor furniture, even if it’s in great condition.
Leave Room for Negotiation
Buyers on Facebook Marketplace often like to haggle, so it’s a good idea to set your price a little higher than your lowest acceptable offer. This gives you room to negotiate and still get a fair price.
- Tip: Round up the price to an even number (e.g., $100 instead of $98) to make your listing look more appealing and easier to negotiate.
5. Respond Quickly and Professionally
Once your listing is live, you’ll want to keep an eye on any messages from potential buyers. The faster you respond, the more likely you are to make the sale. Facebook Marketplace buyers often message several sellers at once, so if you respond quickly, you’ll stay at the top of their mind.
Be Polite and Professional
Even though Facebook Marketplace is a casual platform, it’s still important to be polite and professional in your conversations. Respond promptly to questions, be respectful, and provide any additional information the buyer asks for. If someone seems interested, offer to arrange a time for them to pick up the item.
Handle Lowball Offers Gracefully
You might receive lowball offers (buyers offering much less than your asking price). If you’re not comfortable accepting the offer, you can politely decline or make a counteroffer. For example, if someone offers $50 for a piece listed at $100, you can reply with something like, “I appreciate your offer, but I’m firm at $90. Let me know if you’re still interested.”
- Tip: Keep the conversation friendly. Even if you’re not able to reach a deal, maintaining a positive attitude will help you maintain a good reputation as a seller.
6. Be Safe and Prepare for Pickup
Once you’ve agreed on a price and a buyer, it’s time to finalize the transaction. Outdoor furniture can be bulky, so you’ll need to coordinate the pickup or delivery in a way that’s convenient for both of you.
Meet in a Safe Location
If the buyer is picking up the furniture from your home, make sure to choose a safe time for the exchange, preferably during daylight hours. If you’re meeting in a public place, choose somewhere easy to access and familiar to both parties.
Plan for Transportation
Outdoor furniture can be heavy and awkward to transport, so make sure to plan ahead. Let the buyer know if you need help carrying the item, or if it’s something they will need to move themselves. If the furniture requires disassembly (like removing cushions or taking off legs), be sure to mention that in advance.
- Tip: Offer to help load the furniture into their vehicle if you’re able to, as this can make the pickup process easier and more convenient.
Conclusion
Selling outdoor furniture on Facebook Marketplace can be a rewarding experience if you follow these tips. By taking the time to clean, photograph, and price your items correctly, you’ll increase your chances of making a successful sale. Responding quickly and professionally will also help you build trust with potential buyers, making it easier to close the deal.