How to List Furniture on Facebook Marketplace: A Guide to Selling Your Couch and Maybe Your Soul

Selling furniture on Facebook Marketplace can be a rewarding experience, but it’s not just about posting a photo and waiting for the offers to roll in. It’s about strategy, presentation, and sometimes, a little bit of luck. Whether you’re decluttering your home or trying to make some extra cash, this guide will walk you through the process step by step. And who knows? You might even discover a hidden talent for negotiation—or at least learn how to avoid the awkwardness of haggling over a coffee table.

1. Choose the Right Furniture to Sell

Not all furniture is created equal. Before you list anything, ask yourself: Is this piece worth selling? Consider factors like condition, age, and demand. A vintage mid-century modern dresser might fetch a higher price than a particleboard bookshelf from a big-box store. If the item is damaged, decide whether it’s worth repairing or if you should just donate it.

2. Clean and Stage Your Furniture

First impressions matter. Clean your furniture thoroughly—dust, polish, and remove any stains. If you’re selling a couch, consider investing in a fabric cleaner or steam cleaner to make it look as good as new. Staging is also important. Place the furniture in a well-lit area and arrange it in a way that highlights its best features. For example, if you’re selling a dining table, set it with plates and glasses to help potential buyers visualize it in their own homes.

3. Take High-Quality Photos

Your photos are the first thing potential buyers will see, so make them count. Use natural light whenever possible, and take multiple angles to show the entire piece. Don’t forget to include close-ups of any unique details or imperfections. A blurry photo of a chair in a dark corner won’t inspire confidence—or offers.

4. Write a Compelling Description

Your description should be clear, concise, and honest. Include key details like dimensions, materials, and condition. If there are any flaws, mention them upfront to avoid surprises later. Use descriptive language to highlight the item’s best features. For example, instead of saying “old table,” try “vintage farmhouse table with rustic charm.”

5. Price It Right

Pricing can make or break your sale. Research similar items on Facebook Marketplace to get an idea of what people are willing to pay. Be realistic—if your price is too high, you’ll scare off potential buyers; if it’s too low, you might leave money on the table. Consider including “OBO” (or best offer) in your listing to encourage negotiation.

6. Choose the Right Category and Tags

Facebook Marketplace allows you to categorize your listing, so choose wisely. If you’re selling a couch, select “Furniture” and then “Sofas & Couches.” Adding relevant tags, like “mid-century modern” or “sectional,” can also help your listing show up in more searches.

7. Be Responsive and Polite

Once your listing is live, be prepared to answer questions and negotiate. Respond to messages promptly and politely, even if the offer is lower than you’d like. A little kindness can go a long way in closing a deal.

8. Arrange Safe Pickup or Delivery

Decide whether you’ll offer delivery or require pickup. If you’re meeting in person, choose a public place or have someone with you for safety. Make sure the furniture is ready to go when the buyer arrives—no one wants to wait while you disassemble a bed frame.

9. Update or Remove Your Listing

If your item sells, mark it as sold or delete the listing to avoid further inquiries. If it’s been a while and you haven’t gotten any bites, consider lowering the price or updating the photos and description.

10. Learn From the Experience

Every sale is a learning opportunity. Take note of what worked and what didn’t, and apply those lessons to your next listing. Who knows? You might just become a Facebook Marketplace pro.

FAQs

Q: How do I handle lowball offers?
A: Stay polite but firm. You can counter with a higher price or simply say, “Sorry, I can’t go that low.” Remember, it’s okay to walk away from a bad deal.

Q: Should I include my phone number in the listing?
A: No. Keep all communication within Facebook Messenger to protect your privacy.

Q: What if the buyer doesn’t show up?
A: Unfortunately, no-shows are common. Always confirm the day before and have a backup plan, like listing the item again or reaching out to other interested buyers.

Q: Can I sell furniture that’s not in perfect condition?
A: Absolutely! Just be transparent about any flaws in your description and price the item accordingly. Some buyers are specifically looking for fixer-uppers.

Q: How do I avoid scams?
A: Trust your instincts. If something feels off, it probably is. Avoid buyers who ask for personal information or offer to pay with suspicious methods like wire transfers.

Selling furniture on Facebook Marketplace doesn’t have to be stressful. With a little preparation and patience, you can turn your unwanted items into cash—and maybe even make a few new friends along the way. Happy selling!