How to Create a Quality Listing for Secondhand Furniture
We get it. Selling your furniture can be a pain in the royal backside.
But trust us, putting in a little bit of effort BEFORE you list your items for sale will pay dividends in the longer run.
Use this guide to create the perfect listing, giving you best chance of not only a quick sale but the best price.
Are you ready? Let's get listing together!
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STEP 1. Clean and Repair
Clean Thoroughly
Dust all surfaces, wipe down with appropriate cleaners, and polish where needed. Remove any stickers, marks and fingerprints.
Hot tip: if you going to use a cleaner, test in an inconspicuous area first to make sure it doesn't strip the finish and create an even greater imperfection. If you don't feel confident, it's best to leave it.
Hot tip: Try the Magic Eraser, retailing at around $5 at major supermarkets and hardware stores
Address Minor Flaws
If you can easily fix a loose screw, tighten it. Small improvements can make a big difference here.
STEP 2. Stage and Style
Declutter the area
Clear away any unnecessary items from the background. You'll be amazed how the background and clutter can change the perception of what your item might be worth and how well it's been looked after.
Add some styling
Arrange the furniture in a way that demonstrates its function. A dining table with a simple place setting or a sofa with a throw blanket can be very effective.
Keep it simple
Avoid overly elaborate staging that can distract from the furniture itself. Also, do not use staging to hide imperfections; if you do, take another photo without the styling and be clear to highlight it in your description.
STEP 3. Take Photographs
Frame Your Shot
Ensure the entire piece of furniture is visible in the photo. Avoid accidentally cropping out edges or corners.
Take Multiple Angles
Take photos from the front, back, sides, and any unique perspectives. Put yourself in the shoes of the buyer - what would you like to see if you were buying this item?
Hot tip: Take around 10 photos. Even if you think 2 or 3 is enough, we guarantee you'll wish you took more at the time.
Close-Up Details
Capture close-up shots of wood grain, fabric texture, hardware, and any unique features.
Imperfections Matter
Take photos of any scratches, dents, or other damage. No one likes to be blind-sighted at pick up or delivery.
Natural Lighting
Photograph your furniture near a window if possible, or ideally in the early morning or late afternoon light. Midday sun can create harsh shadows. Avoid photographing at night with a flash at all costs.
Quick tips for pro level photos:Clean Your Lens: Wipe your phone or camera lens with a soft, clean cloth before taking photos. Smudges can blur your images. Keep Your Phone Straight: Try to avoid tilting your phone, keep it as straight and direct to the furniture as possible. This may mean bending down to get a direct shot. Use the gridlines on your phone’s camera to keep your photos level if you need to. Focus is Key: Tap the screen on your phone to focus on the furniture. Ensure it’s sharp and clear. Take Too Many Photos: Take multiple photos of each angle and detail. This gives you options to choose the best ones. |
STEP 4. Take Measurements
Use a Measuring Tape
Avoid using estimations, this will mislead the buyer and cause disappointment. Double check your measurements.
Measure Length, Width, and Height
Include these dimensions as a minimum.
Measure at Unique Points
For seating for example, measure the seat height and the seat depth. Other items might curve and taper, so measure at the widest point.
Drawers on TV units or study desks or sections of shelving in display units are also examples of where to provide other measurements.
Step 5: Write like a Real Estate Agent
Be Detailed
Include information about materials, colour, condition, and any unique features.
Hot tip: Highlight any brand information and the original $RRP value. Including what year it was purchased is also helpful.
Use Descriptive Language
Instead of "brown chair," say "rich mahogany dining chair with a plush, coloured cushion."
Highlight Key Features
Emphasise what makes your furniture special i.e. unique detailing, quality wood, designer fabric.
Be Honest About Condition
Disclose any flaws or damage.
Tell the Story
A story can add value and interest, particularly for vintage, mid century and family heirloom pieces.
Use Keywords
Think about what buyers might search for (e.g., "vintage," "mid-century," "solid wood").
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Well there you have it. You now have everything you need for a high quality listing!
Have we missed anything? Let us know in the comments!
Happy Selling!
