Guys, after several months of searching I found the best ottoman for my family room, and I had to show it to you today, and also share some tips for mastering Facebook martketplace.
Can I tell you a secret? I used to be embarrassed by my love of thrifting, garage sale-ing, and antique shopping. Now I talk about it basically everyday with thousands of people all over the world. The internet it crazy. But honestly, there are so many reasons I love to curate things for my home via the secondhand route, and if it helps someone else create a home they love too, then I’ll gladly shout it from the rooftops.
I am a proud thrifter!
I save money, it’s more sustainable, I can find unique pieces that fit the period of my home, the quality of the pieces is higher… I could go on and on. I’ve found pieces for my home at thrift stores, antique shops, antique markets and fairs, but my favorite place to score beautiful, unique, vintage pieces for my home is Facebook Marketplace.
In fact, I’ve become somewhat of an expert at hunting down treasures on Facebook Marketplace over the last few years (except don’t ask me to source amazing vintage pine nightstands on FB marketplace, because apparently I am incapable of doing that…), but I’ve picked up a few tips and tricks along the way and in light of my latest FBM find, I thought I would share them with you. I know Facebook Marketplace can feel overwhelming but I promise these tips will help you have success:
6 tips for scoring on Facebook Marketplace.
- Train the Facebook Marketplace Algorithm: Did you know that Facebook Marketplace has an algorithm? Just like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube use their algorithm to personalize your experience on their apps, Facebook marketplace has an algorithm to suggest listings to you. The great thing about this is, it can be trained to show you the best stuff. Understanding how the Facebook Marketplace algorithm works can give you a huge edge when it comes to finding those unicorn pieces. The algorithm takes into account factors like your search history, engagement with listings, and saved items to personalize your Marketplace experience. By consistently interacting with listings that align with your interests, you can train the algorithm to suggest more relevant items in your feed.
- Use Keywords Effectively: Keywords are a fantastic way to train the FB marketplace algorithm. When searching on Facebook Marketplace, don’t limit yourself to generic terms. Instead, incorporate a wide variety of specific keywords such as “vintage,” “primitive,” “antique,” “scrubbed pine,” etc. Also consider using alternative search terms. Because people use lots of different names for the same things. For example, if you are searching for a kitchen hutch, you might search “hutch,” but you can also try searching: “cabinet,” “sideboard,” “shelves,” etc. This approach will unearth hidden gems you might otherwise not have found and increase your chances of finding that perfect piece.
- Expand Your Search Radius: If you’re not finding anything good in your area, try expand your radius to at least 200 miles, this expands the amount of items that show up, and gives you more options. Sometimes, the perfect find may be located beyond your immediate area. Don’t be afraid to expand your search radius and explore listings in neighboring cities or towns. If you are worried about how the item will be picked up/ delivered to you, there are services that you can use like Uship, Bungii, and Lugg. You can also enlisting the help of friends or family members who reside in different areas.
- Save Similar Items for Future Reference: Even if you’re not ready to make a purchase, clicking on and saving items that align with your interests can be beneficial. By engaging with similar listings, you signal to the Facebook Marketplace algorithm that you’re actively seeking specific types of items. This may prompt the platform to suggest relevant listings in your feed, making it easier to discover new treasures.
- Search often and be patient: Be patient and persistent in your search. Finding the perfect piece takes time, so don’t be discouraged if you don’t strike gold right away. Some of the best finds in my home came after months of diligently searching and waiting for the right piece. (I’m looking at you antique French baker’s table…). Keeping an open mind, being persistent and staying committed to your vision almost always results in a killer find.
- Be an ideal customer: When you stumble upon an item that speaks to your soul, don’t hesitate to reach out to the seller. Skip the standard “Is this available?” message and instead craft a personalized message expressing your genuine connection to the item. Sellers appreciate engaged buyers and may be more inclined to prioritize you. Being flexible and accommodating with sellers will also give you better odds, and if you want to negotiate, I recommend doing so before arriving. That way you are on the same page.
I hope you found these Facebook Marketplace tips helpful! Try incorporating them into your shopping strategy the next time you’re searching for something and you’ll improve your chances of scoring a great find. Happy hunting!
See how I transform thrift store frames into beautiful vintage art.
