How to Shop Used Furniture Like a Pro

Everybody knows how hard it can be to furnish your apartment, whether you’re moving out of your parent’s house for the first time or getting an apartment with a roommate. Finding new furniture that fits your aesthetic and budget can take weeks and months. If budget is a constraint, consider buying secondhand furniture.

Shopping for secondhand furniture allows you to find unique, affordable pieces that elevate your home. Today, there are online marketplaces, independent sellers, and apps that make it easier to buy used furniture.

Below we’ve compiled a list of helpful tips to remember while shopping for secondhand furniture.

Ask Questions

Check out Apt Deco, Kaiyo, and online markets like Facebook, Etsy, and Craigslist for less curated options. If the price seems too low and unreal, pester the seller with questions. Ask about the piece’s history and present condition. If they are reliable, they should be able to offer more information and pictures. Once you’ve established that the seller is real and the site is trustworthy, enjoy.

Research

Consider furniture, even if it’s secondhand, like an investment. Do ample research before buying anything. If the price is too steep, head to your preferred search engine and look for similar items. This will also help you understand if the piece could have a better resale value.

Don’t Rush

Give yourself a few weeks to understand how the furniture you’re considering will fit into your house. Verify the precise measurements and imagine the piece in your home before buying it. Buying something just to fill up space in your home isn’t worth the trouble. Simply leave that area of your home unfilled until you find the ideal piece.

Get Offline

If you prefer doing things the old-school way, visit flea markets, estate sales, and vintage shops outside your home city. The best and quirkiest items can be found in rural areas. Look for powerful, statement pieces that add value to your home. If you find a piece that you love but it looks weathered, don’t dismiss it. You can always update upholstery and restore elements to make it look new.

Consider It a Passion Project

As you dive more into the secondhand furniture market, you’ll learn much about the vintage design world. This will improve your shopping experience in the present and future both.