Last Updated on September 30, 2024 by Our Editors
Remember that feeling when you found that perfect, comfy chair at your grandma’s house? Or how about stumbling upon a cool vintage lamp at a yard sale that just made your room pop? Well, get ready to feel that excitement all over again, because we’re diving into the awesome world of second-hand furniture!
More and more people are catching on to this hidden gem of a trend. It’s like a treasure hunt where the prizes are amazing deals, one-of-a-kind pieces, and a chance to help Mother Earth. Imagine decking out your whole pad with unique furniture that tells a story, all while keeping more cash in your pocket. Sounds pretty sweet, right?
Sounds great, but where should you start?
Don’t worry, we’ve got your back. This guide is all about buying second-hand furniture. We will talk about all the awesome benefits, the top online platforms to buy second-hand furniture, insider tips on how to score the best deals, and even how to turn your old stuff into cash, with some inspiration to spruce up your space.
Without further ado, let us help you upskill in the art of buying and selling second-hand furniture.
Why You Should Go For Second-Hand Furniture?
Whether you’re furnishing your first apartment, upgrading your office, or just love a good bargain, stick around. Second-hand furniture can turn your space into a unique, budget-friendly, eco-conscious space.
Cost Savings: More Bang For Your Buck
Let’s face it, new furniture can cost an arm and a leg. But when you shop for used furniture, you’re in for some serious savings. Here’s the deal:
- You can often snag used home furniture for 50–80% off the original price. That’s like getting a $1000 couch for $200–$500. Not too shabby, right?
- You can also furnish your whole apartment with second-hand furniture from the USA. If you look closely, you can get a leather sofa, coffee table, dining set, and a bookshelf for under $600 total. Is the same stuff new? It would’ve cost you over $2000!
- Even designer second-hand pieces become affordable. That fancy Herman Miller office chair that’s usually $1000? You might find it used for $300–$400.
Just keep looking!
Unique Finds: One-Of-A-Kind Cool
When you buy used furniture online or in thrift stores, you’re not getting the same cookie-cutter stuff everyone else has. Here’s why that rocks:
- Vintage pieces add character. That 1960s sideboard or mid-century modern armchair? It’s got stories to tell and style for days.
- You can mix and match for a look that’s all yours. Combine different eras and styles to create a space that’s uniquely yours, not just some characterless hub of sofas and chairs.
- You might stumble upon real treasures. You can find a hand-carved wooden chest at a used furniture outlet for $50. It turns out it was worth over $500!
A survey by Furniture Choice found that 74% of people who bought second-hand furniture did so because they liked the unique style. And 82% said used furniture added more character to their home.
Environmental Benefits: Save The Planet, One Couch At A Time
Buying second hand furniture isn’t just good for your wallet – it’s great for Mother Earth too:
- Less waste in landfills. When you buy used, you’re keeping perfectly good furniture out of the dump.
- Reduced demand for new production. This means fewer trees cut down and less energy used in manufacturing.
- Lower carbon footprint. New furniture often travels long distances from factories. Used pieces? They’re usually right in your neighborhood.
These statistics support it too!
According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), over 12 million tons of furniture and furnishings end up in landfills each year in the United States.
A study by the University of Cambridge found that reusing furniture can reduce its environmental impact by up to 80% compared to buying new.
So, next time you need to furnish your pad, why not give second hand furniture shopping a shot?
Now, let’s get to the focal point of this article, and that is: Buying second hand furniture online. Second-hand furniture shopping online has become increasingly popular and convenient.
Numerous second-hand furniture online platforms offer a wide variety of pre-owned furniture pieces, built in different eras, in different styles, budgets, and preferences. Check out these 11 second-hand online furniture platforms to find the perfect fit for your home.
Buy Second-Hand Furniture Online
Here are some of the best online destinations to find quality second-hand furniture, and to buy and sell old furniture:
1stDibs is a luxury marketplace that offers an extensive collection of antique, vintage, and contemporary furniture from top dealers around the world. Known for its high-end offerings, 1stDibs is the go-to destination for those seeking rare and unique pieces with a touch of elegance.
This platform allows shoppers to buy directly, negotiate a price, or bid on items at auction and enables them to interact with sellers throughout all stages of the transaction, including item inquiries, price negotiations, and customization requests.
One Kings Lane is a second-hand furniture online flash sale site that offers discounted prices on brand-name furniture, home decor, and accessories.
While they do sell some new items, One Kings Lane also features a selection of vintage and antique pieces that add character to any space.
Etsy is a popular second-hand furniture shopping marketplace for handmade, vintage, and unique items. It caters to all your living room, bedroom, kids room, and office furniture needs.
You can find a wide range of second-hand furniture pieces on Etsy, from mid-century modern classics to upcycled and repurposed treasures. Many sellers on Etsy also offer custom furniture restoration services.
Kaiyo is a furniture resale platform that focuses on high-quality, gently used pieces from top brands. They offer a hassle-free buying and selling experience, with free delivery and a 30-day return policy.
Kaiyo is an excellent choice for those looking for well-made furniture at a fraction of the original cost. This brand also plants a tree for every purchase made on its platform to support sustainability.
Renovation Angel is a non-profit organization that specializes in luxury kitchen and bath appliances, fixtures, and furniture. They offer a unique selection of pre-owned items from high-end brands, with proceeds going towards their mission of promoting sustainable living.
If you want to support a sustainable initiative and eco-friendly living, buy second-hand furniture from Renovation Angel.
Chairish is an online marketplace for vintage, antique, and designer furniture. Since Chairish began, it has kept 876,314 (and counting) gently loved items in circulation, and about 85% of its inventory is vintage.
They offer a curated selection of unique pieces from trusted sellers, making it easy to find one-of-a-kind items that suit your style. Chairish also offers a concierge service to help you find specific pieces you’re looking for, and make your second hand furniture shopping experience comfortable.
AptDeco is a peer-to-peer furniture resale platform that facilitates the buying and selling of second-hand furniture in the New York metropolitan area. Catering to a diverse range of styles, from modern to traditional, AptDeco offers an extensive selection of furniture pieces, making it easy for users to find exactly what they need.
The platform prioritizes security and convenience by handling payments, providing detailed listings, and arranging for professional pick-up and delivery services. This streamlined process ensures a hassle-free experience for both buyers and sellers, allowing them to participate in the resale market with confidence.
Rejuvenation is a distinguished home decor brand known for offering a curated selection of both new and vintage furniture pieces. While their new products are popular for their quality and timeless design, their vintage collection truly stands out for its unique and well-crafted items.
Each vintage and antique piece is carefully sourced and restored, bringing a sense of history and character to any space. Rejuvenation’s commitment to preserving the integrity and charm of these items allows customers to incorporate one-of-a-kind elements into their homes, blending the past with the present in a stylish and meaningful way.
Craigslist is one of the oldest and most widely used online marketplaces for buying and selling second-hand furniture. Known for its simplicity and vast reach, Craigslist provides a platform where users can find a wide variety of furniture, from everyday items to rare and unique pieces.
While it may lack the curation and specialized services offered by other platforms, Craigslist’s appeal lies in its accessibility and the potential for discovering great local deals. Buyers and sellers can directly connect, negotiate prices, and arrange for pick-up, making it a go-to resource for those looking to furnish their spaces affordably.
eBay is a global online marketplace that allows users to bid on or purchase second-hand furniture from sellers worldwide. With its extensive reach, eBay offers a vast selection of items, ranging from antique treasures to modern furniture pieces, making it a treasure trove for those seeking unique finds.
The platform is known for its competitive pricing, with many items available through auction-style bidding or direct purchase. eBay’s diverse inventory and global access make it an ideal choice for shoppers looking for a deal or a rare, one-of-a-kind piece to add character and charm to their home.
Sotheby’s Home is a premier online auction house that specializes in high-end furniture, art, and collectibles. Catering to discerning buyers, the platform offers a curated selection of rare and valuable pieces from renowned designers and luxury brands.
While the price points may be beyond the reach of some, Sotheby’s Home provides an unparalleled opportunity to acquire exquisite and unique items that are often difficult to find elsewhere. Whether you’re searching for a statement piece or a collectible with historical significance, Sotheby’s Home is a trusted source for those who appreciate the finest in design and craftsmanship.
Apart from the online platforms, you can also find second-hand furniture at:
- Thrift Furniture Stores: Don’t overlook your local thrift furniture stores. Goodwill, Salvation Army, and other charity shops often have a rotating selection of old furniture for sale.
- Used Furniture Outlet Stores: Many cities have dedicated outlets for used furniture for sale. These places are perfect to shop used furniture for home and office at great prices.
- Local Listings: Check out local listings for second hand furniture USA cheap options. You might be surprised at what you can find right in your neighborhood!
You know, when buying second-hand furniture online, it’s important to inspect the item and ask multiple questions carefully. Read on to find out what you must ask before buying second-hand used furniture.
Tips for Buying Second-Hand Furniture
Follow these tips to find high-quality second-hand furniture that will last.
- Measure Twice, Buy Once! Before you head out to buy and sell old furniture, make sure you know exactly what size pieces you need. There’s nothing worse than falling in love with a couch that won’t fit through your door!
- Inspect Carefully When you shop used furniture, take a close look at each piece. Check for any damage, wobbles, or funky smells. A little wear is okay, but major issues might not be worth the hassle.
- Understand Materials
- Solid wood: Durable, can be refinished
- Particle board: Less durable, difficult to repair
- Upholstered items: Check for odors, stains, and wear
- Don’t Be Afraid to Haggle! Especially when you’re looking at old furniture for sale from individual sellers, there’s often room for negotiation. Just be polite and reasonable!
- Think Outside the Box! That old dresser might make a great TV stand with a little paint. Get creative with how you can use used furniture for home and office.
- Additionally, consider the cost of shipping and any potential restoration or repair costs before purchasing.
With a little patience, you can uncover some real gems, while you shop used furniture!
Finding Deals Near You
Looking for second-hand furniture USA near me? Try these tips:
- Use location-based search filters on online platforms
- Check local Facebook groups dedicated to buying and selling furniture
- Visit flea markets and garage sales in your area
For those specifically searching for old furniture for sale, or second-hand furniture USA for sale near me, don’t forget to check out:
- Local estate sales
- Consignment shops
- Community bulletin boards (physical and online)
If you are short on inspiration, let us help you out and get you going!
The Pending Office Makeover!
Need to spruce up your workspace? Used office furniture can be a great way to outfit your home office or small business without breaking the bank. Look for sturdy desks, comfortable chairs, and functional filing cabinets.
Make Your Home Sweeter!
When it comes to used home furniture, the possibilities are endless. From cozy armchairs to dining room sets, you can furnish your entire home with second-hand finds. Add a touch of history, creativity, and uniqueness with preloved pieces to your home. Mix and match styles for a unique, personalized look that screams “you”!
Now, selling is an art in itself, right? Many people aren’t good, but you will be! How? Check out our bid on how to sell second hand furniture online, offline, or basically anywhere.
Read more about green living room ideas.
How To Sell Second-Hand Furniture Online?
Here’s what you must do to sell your second-hand furniture in the right way:
Prepare Items for Sale:
- Clean thoroughly and make minor repairs.
- Stage items attractively for photos.
- Gather information on brand, age, and materials
Price Competitively:
- Research prices of similar items in your area
- Factor in condition and any unique features
- Start slightly higher to allow room for negotiation
Choose the Right Platform:
- Local pickup: Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist
- Shipping options: eBay, and Etsy for vintage items
- Consignment: Local shops for higher-end pieces
Create Compelling Listings:
- Use high-quality, well-lit photos from multiple angles
- Write detailed descriptions, including measurements
- Be honest about your condition and any flaws
How To Price Your Items Competitively?
Pricing can make or break your sale. Here’s how to hit that sweet spot:
Do Your Research
- Look up similar items on second-hand furniture USA cheap listings.
- Check what comparable pieces are going for in your area.
- Consider the brand, age, and condition of your item.
Start a Bit High
- List slightly above your ideal price to leave room for negotiation.
- Be prepared to lower the price if it doesn’t sell quickly.
Be Realistic
- Remember, used furniture for home and office typically sells for 20-50% of its original retail price.
- Factor in any wear and tear or outdated styles.
Offer a Deal for Quick Sales
- Consider bundle deals if you’re selling multiple pieces.
- Offer a slight discount for buyers who can pick up immediately.
Be Flexible
- If someone makes a reasonable offer, consider taking it.
- The goal is to sell, not to let it sit in your garage forever!
Summing Up!
Buying and selling second-hand furniture is a smart way to save money, help the environment, and add more character and personality style to your home. Every second hand furniture piece has a story to tell, and you can never have too many of them. With so many options available, there’s no reason not to give it a try!
So, we encourage you to explore the various options available for second-hand furniture, whether thrift furniture stores, online marketplaces, or community sales. Don’t miss out on these fantastic opportunities!
Check out the resources and platforms mentioned in this blog to start your journey into the world of second-hand furniture. Happy hunting!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What should I check before buying second-hand furniture?
Before purchasing second-hand furniture, inspect for any damage like scratches, stains, or structural issues. Check for pests like bed bugs, especially in upholstered items. Test moving parts, such as drawers and hinges, and ask about the item’s history to ensure quality and longevity.
2. Where can I buy second-hand furniture online?
Popular online platforms for second-hand furniture include Craigslist, eBay, and Facebook Marketplace. Specialty sites like Chairish, 1stDibs, and AptDeco offer curated, high-quality items. These platforms provide a wide selection, convenient search filters, and often include delivery or shipping options.
- 3. How do I sell my old furniture effectively?
To sell furniture effectively, clean and repair your items, then stage them attractively for photos. Set a competitive price based on similar listings and market demand. Post on platforms like Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, or specialized sites like AptDeco and Chairish for a wider reach.
4. Is second-hand furniture safe to buy?
Yes, second-hand furniture can be safe if you take precautions. Inspect items for damage, check for pests, and clean them thoroughly. Avoid overly worn-out furniture or items with structural issues that could compromise safety. Buying from reputable sellers and stores also reduces risk.
5. What are the benefits of buying second-hand furniture?
Buying second-hand furniture offers cost savings, unique and vintage pieces, and environmental benefits. It reduces waste and supports sustainability by recycling items that would otherwise end up in landfills. Plus, second-hand finds often have character and craftsmanship that modern pieces may lack.
