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Joe Brito • Sep 30, 2023

Selling Furniture When Moving: Tips, Platforms, and Strategies

Whether you're looking for a fresh start in a new home or want to profit, selling your furniture can be beneficial. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process, from assessing your furniture to closing the deal.


Assessing Your Furniture for Sale:

Selling Furniture

Before you can sell, you need to know what you have.

  • Inventory List: Create a list of furniture items, from sofas to small items like side tables.
  • Condition: Evaluate the condition of each piece. Is it vintage furniture or modern art-inspired? Does it have any damage, or is it in mint condition?
  • Value: Research the market value, especially for antiques or mid-century furniture. 

Making the Decision: Keep, Donate, or Sell?

 

Every item has its place. Decide based on:

  • Suitability for New Home: Will that bookcase fit your new perfect home in the Texas real estate market?
  • Sentimental Value: Some items, like gifts from friends and family, might hold sentimental value.
  • Frequency of Use: That treadmill you never use? It may be time to sell.

Preparing Your Furniture for the Market:

 

Presentation matters, especially in online listings.

  • Cleaning: Give every item a thorough cleaning. For upholstered items, consider professional cleaning.
  • Repairing Damages: Mending damages can increase the value of your item.
  • Photographs: Take high-quality photos. Remember, a picture is worth a thousand words. Websites like Westend61/Getty Images offer great tips on product photography.

Setting the Right Price:

 

Price can make or break a sale.

  • Research: Check out online selling platforms like eBay, Facebook Marketplace, and Craigslist to gauge the going rate for similar items.
  • Condition vs. Demand: A vintage shop might value an antique differently than a garage sale.

Crafting an Effective Ad:

 

Your ad is your sales pitch.

  • Description: Be detailed. Mention the condition, dimensions, and any other relevant information.
  • Photos: Include multiple angles of the item.

Choosing the Best Selling Platform:

 

Different platforms cater to different audiences.



  • Local Platforms: Craigslist/Kijiji and Facebook marketplace are great for local sales.
  • Social Media: Instagram merchant capability is becoming increasingly popular for furniture sales.


Mastering the Art of Negotiation:

 

Selling is as much about negotiation as it is about the item.


  • Understand Buyer Behavior: Some buyers will always try to haggle. Be prepared.
  • Be Flexible But Firm: Set a minimum price in your mind and stick to it.
  • Safety: Always meet in public or ensure you're with others if the buyer is coming to your home.


Alternative Options: Donations and Junk Removal:

 

Only some things will sell. That's okay.

  • Donations: Consider donating to charity. It's for a good cause and can be a tax write-off.
  • Junk Removal: Consider a junk removal company for damaged items beyond repair, or check if your city has specific landfill guidelines.


Hiring Professional Movers when Moving Your Furniture

Professional Movers when Moving Your Furniture

Hiring professional movers in Texas when moving your furniture can be a wise decision to save you time and reduce the stress associated with relocating. Here are some key considerations and steps to follow when hiring professional movers for your furniture move:


Assess Your Needs:


  • Determine the size of your move (e.g., local, long-distance, international).
  • Decide what furniture items you want to move and what you might like to sell, donate, or dispose of.
  • Consider special requirements like moving fragile or valuable items, pianos, or antique furniture.


Research Moving Companies:


  • Start by researching moving companies in your area. Ask for recommendations from friends, family, or colleagues.
  • Read online reviews and check their ratings on websites like Yelp, Google, or the Better Business Bureau.
  • Verify their credentials and licenses. They should be adequately insured and licensed to operate in your jurisdiction.


Get Multiple Quotes:


  • Contact several moving companies to obtain quotes. Be sure to provide them with accurate information about the size and distance of your move.
  • Ask for written estimates that detail all costs and any additional fees.


Check for Insurance Coverage:


  • Verify the level of insurance coverage the moving company offers. It's crucial to ensure your furniture is protected during the move.
  • Consider purchasing additional insurance if you have valuable or antique item.


Ask About Services:


  • Please inquire about the services included in their moving package. This might consist of packing, unpacking, disassembling, and reassembling furniture.
  • Discuss any specific requirements, such as handling delicate or heavy items.


Check References:


  • Request references from the moving company and contact previous customers for feedback on the company's services.


Review the Contract:


  • Carefully read the contract provided by the moving company. Make sure you understand all terms and conditions.
  • Pay attention to the payment schedule and any cancellation policies.


Plan Ahead:


  • Schedule your move well in advance, especially if you are moving during the peak season.
  • Arrange a convenient date and time for the move.


Prepare Your Furniture:


  • Before the movers arrive, disassemble any furniture that needs it. This can save time and reduce costs.
  • Ensure all items are correctly packed and labelled if you're doing your packing.


Supervise the Move:


  • Be present on a moving day to oversee the process, answer any questions, and ensure everything goes smoothly.

Tip and Provide Refreshments:

  • It's customary to tip the movers if they provide excellent service. A bonus is usually 5-10% of the total cost.
  • Offer refreshments like water or snacks to energize the movers during the process.


Inspect Your Furniture:


  • After the move, inspect your furniture for any damage. If you find any, report it to the moving company immediately.

Hiring professional movers can make your furniture relocation less stressful and more efficient. Following these steps and choosing a reputable moving company can ensure a smoother transition to your new home.

 

FAQs:


  • How do I price my furniture? Consider factors like condition, age, and market demand.
  • Where can I sell my furniture fast? Online platforms like Facebook Marketplace or local garage sales can be quick.
  • How do I handle shipping? For large items, local deals are best. For smaller items, consider shipping options and include the cost in the price or list it separately.


Additional Tips and Tricks:



  • Timing: Spring and summer are peak moving seasons, making them great times to sell.
  • Safety: Always prioritize safety, especially when meeting buyers in person.
  • Documentation: Record all sales, especially for valuable items.

 

Selling furniture when moving can be a win-win situation. You get a fresh start, declutter, and make extra cash in your new home. You can turn your unwanted stuff into a profit with the right strategies.

 

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