How to Score Great Finds on Facebook Marketplace: Tips and Tricks
Today, I’m going to share some insider tips on how to find amazing items on Facebook Marketplace.
Table of contents
Why Facebook Marketplace?
If you’ve been following me on social media, you know I love thrift stores, Facebook Marketplace, and back in the day, Craigslist (though not so much anymore).
People often ask me how I find such great things on Facebook Marketplace when they can’t seem to find anything good. Well, I’m here to tell you that there are fantastic deals on Facebook Marketplace, no matter where you live. You just need to know how to search properly.
1. Make a List
Before you even start searching, make a list of the items you’re looking for. This is crucial because if you just browse through what the algorithm shows you, it might not be what you want.
Be specific about the items you need for your home. For example, I was looking for a coffee table with burl, and I found exactly what I needed by searching for specific descriptors like “square wood coffee table.”
Be precise about the shape, size, color, and texture because these are the keywords people use in their listings.
2. Save and Wait
Sometimes, you might find the perfect item, but it’s out of your price range. Save the listing anyway. The algorithm will start showing you similar items at different price points. Eventually, you’ll find one that fits your budget, and then you can snap it up.
3. Know Your Limits
Be honest with yourself about your DIY skills and how much work you’re willing to put into an item. If a piece requires a lot of time or money to refurbish, it might not be worth it compared to buying something new. Assess your budget and the effort you can realistically invest in each item.
4. Look for Potential
When searching, consider the features that appeal to you and how the item could fit into your home with a bit of work. Sometimes, I look for more generic items, like chairs for my outdoor space, and repurpose them. For instance, I bought indoor slipcover chairs for my outdoor space because they were affordable and I planned to customize them.
5. Budget and Balance
Remember, finding great deals is a balance between pricing and your capabilities as a DIYer. My entire space, including furniture, cost less than $500. However, I plan to DIY some items, like sanding and painting. So, always consider the total cost, including any refurbishing.
Final Thoughts
These are just a few tips I keep in mind when shopping on Facebook Marketplace. If you have any questions, please comment below.
There’s a lot more we can cover about Facebook Marketplace and thrift store shopping. If you’re interested, I’ll make more videos to dive deeper into these topics.
Thank you for joining me today. Let me know your thoughts about shopping on Facebook Marketplace in the comments below. Until next time, happy thrifting!
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