Moving house is a big step, but saying goodbye to some of your furniture? That can be a bit of a challenge, too. If you’re getting ready to move and want to lighten the load (and maybe make a few bucks), selling your furniture is the way to go. But how do you get the most value without too much hassle? Here are some of the best strategies for selling furniture before relocating.
1. Start Early and Plan Ahead
The sooner you start, the better off you’ll be. Selling furniture isn’t something you want to do at the last minute. Give yourself at least a few weeks before moving day to list and sell your items. That extra time gives you the chance to find the right buyers and avoid settling for a low price just to get rid of everything.
Make a list of everything you’re planning to sell and do a bit of research to get an idea of what it’s worth. A little planning will help you get the best return on your pieces.
2. Choose the Right Selling Platform
Not all selling platforms are equal, so pick the ones that suit your needs. Facebook Marketplace is great for quick sales to local buyers—especially for larger items like couches or dining tables. Apps like Gumtree and eBay also work well, especially if you’re willing to ship smaller pieces.
For high-end furniture, consider listing on specialty sites like Chairish or AptDeco, which cater to buyers looking for unique and quality items. The right platform can make all the difference when it comes to reaching the right audience.
3. Price It Right
When pricing your furniture, keep in mind that buyers are usually hunting for a bargain. Be realistic about what your items are worth—furniture loses value over time, so you probably won’t get back what you originally paid. That said, you don’t need to undersell either. Check out similar items to get a fair idea of what people are paying.
If you’re not getting much interest, think about dropping the price or offering discounts for buying multiple items. And remember, a little flexibility goes a long way—everyone loves feeling like they got a good deal.
4. Stage and Photograph Your Items Well
Presentation matters. The better your furniture looks, the quicker it will sell. Clean your items, make any minor repairs, and stage them to show off their best features. Bright, well-lit photos make all the difference.
Take pictures from multiple angles and include close-ups of any unique details. Be honest in your descriptions—if there are scratches or signs of wear, mention them. People appreciate transparency, and it helps build trust.
5. Highlight the Benefits
When writing descriptions, don’t just list the dimensions and materials. Talk about what makes the piece special and why it would be a great addition to someone’s home. Mention how comfortable that armchair is or how the coffee table has been the centre of many family game nights. Storytelling can create an emotional connection and make your listing stand out.
6. Be Open to Negotiation
Negotiation is part of the game when it comes to selling second-hand items. Buyers often try to haggle for a better deal, so be ready. Decide beforehand what your lowest acceptable price is and stick to it. But at the same time, try to be friendly and approachable—people are more likely to buy from someone they like.
7. Bundle Items Together
If you have several items that go well together, consider bundling them for a better deal. A dining table with matching chairs or a bedroom set might appeal more as a complete package rather than selling each piece separately. Bundling can also make it easier to sell multiple items at once, saving you time and effort.
8. Schedule Pickups Smartly
Once you’ve made a sale, schedule the pickup at a time that works well for both you and the buyer. If possible, arrange for multiple buyers to come around the same time, so you’re not waiting all day. And make sure someone else is home with you during the pickup, especially if you’re selling large items.
Final Thoughts
Selling your furniture before moving can help lighten the load and put some extra cash in your pocket. By starting early, picking the right platforms, and presenting your items in the best way possible, you’ll have a much easier time finding buyers who appreciate your furniture as much as you do.
If you need more moving tips or help with your upcoming relocation, feel free to reach out—we’re here to make your move as smooth as possible!
