With dodgy product photos and bizarre descriptions, Facebook Marketplace can often feel like the wild west of second-hand shopping. Unlike Vinterior or 1st Dibs, there are very few professionals on the platform. Unlike eBay, there is no online auction to participate in. Very often, winning pieces simply comes down to speed and luck of the draw.
On a platform where you can buy everything from hamster wheels to car tyres, how do you find the treasure in the trash? Enter the tastemakers, interiors designers and renovation experts, who have kindly compiled a list of their greatest tips and tricks to help you get the very best out of Facebook Marketplace. Happy hunting!
Location, location, location
As Tattie Isles, a botanical artist and set designer whose 18th-century cottage was recently featured in House & Garden, says, ‘Facebook Marketplace is great for anything and everything. I like that it’s local and often there's a community feel because of that. I have found two of my favourite possessions on the platform: the suzani in our bedroom (seen above) and my oak framed beautiful shepherd's hut which I adore. If I am staying somewhere for a few days I change my location and have a look at what’s around in a new area. I have found some beautiful pieces in the north of England and Scotland.'
Cruz Wyndham, creative director of Anut Cairo, suggests searching locally to save on transport costs. 'Look in nearby, affluent areas, too. I often search in neighbourhoods like Notting Hill, Islington, or Hampstead Heath–areas where people are more likely to want things gone quickly rather than make a profit.’
Interior designer Gergei Erdei also recommends widening your search beyond just your immediate neighborhood. He says, 'Residential outskirts often have hidden gems, and people moving house tend to part with beautiful antique pieces at very reasonable prices. Often, they’re more interested in clearing space quickly than making money, which can lead to amazing finds.’
Nadine Bacchus-Garrick, who documented her house renovation on Instagram a few years previously, has become quite the Facebook Marketplace expert. Her advice is simply to 'Be realistic about how far you're willing to travel for the item, and set the mileage to avoid wasting time.'
Be specific
When it comes to looking for furniture of a certain type, or for a certain location, Nadine's advice is to be as specific as you can. 'Use keywords and locations and be as descriptive as possible. For example, instead of searching “vintage coffee table” try “teak mid century coffee table".' Tattie agrees, advising to 'type in different versions of the same thing as sometimes people describe things differently to how you would. I found my beautiful old Suzani for £40 because I was searching for a tapestry.’
Another suggestion is to type in brand names of storied and admired brands, such as Laura Ashley, Heal's and The Conran Shop. Some of Cruz's favourite finds include ‘a perfect condition Laura Ashley sofa, and a Laura Ashley armchair we reupholstered for £100.' She also recommends searching for terms such as ‘rattan furniture, Scandinavian benches, and sofas,’ as these have uncovered some gems for her.
Move quickly
The golden rule for Facebook Marketplace is to be prepared to move quickly. Cruz says, ‘speed is absolutely crucial as people - especially if they’re moving house - want to get rid of things.' As Nadine confirms, 'the gems go on the marketplace very fast, so there is no time to waste! Most sellers want to shift items quickly, so the most effective way to get your offer accepted is to simultaneously agree to collect the item ASAP. Show you're serious by letting the seller know you have a mode of transport available and can be there at their earliest convenience. The fact that you can move quickly means you are in a better position to barter on the price!'
Double check before checking out
One habit Nadine recommends you get into is checking Facebook Marketplace for great homewares you've seen on the high street. 'If I've fallen in love with a piece, I'll always double check the product name and brand on Facebook Marketplace to see if someone is selling a pre-loved version before I commit to buying new.' Often, this is a great way to get something you love for a lot less money.
Final tips
When it comes to delivery, if you don't have a car, Cruz recommends using Shiply. Cruz says, ‘Shiply connects you with drivers already heading that way, which makes delivery far cheaper.’
Gergei Erdei also encourages you to be 'reasonable and respectful. I sometimes sell items for as little as £5 just to ensure they go to someone who’ll appreciate them rather than see them thrown out. It's okay to negotiate, but remember there’s often already a sense of urgency or sentiment behind listings—kindness goes a long way.'
