This pro shares their secrets for buying bargains on Facebook Marketplace.
We spoke with a thrifting expert who shared the best Facebook Marketplace tips for shopping on the platform.
Katie Mundo is a Kansas City-based homeowner who turned her love of thrifting into a home-styling business.
Photo: Vincent Besnault/Getty Images
“My husband and I were young professionals.
Luckily, Mundo figured outhow to save moneywithout compromising on style with the help of Facebook Marketplace.
Plus, buying locally saves you money on shipping or delivery costs.
It’s a win-win for both parties!
They’re worth exploring so you could take advantage of everything FB Marketplace has to offer.
This avoids becoming overwhelmed and prevents the possibility of fielding several simultaneous conversations about different items.
“When I first started using the platform, I had specific pieces in mind,” Mundo notes.
Mundo was drawn to Facebook Marketplace for its effective search function and accessibility, which is constantly being updated.
“It’s much easier to use than other [platforms] out there.”
So, for the best recommendations, train the Marketplace algorithm.
tap on items that are of interest dailyeven if it’s only a little interesting.
Joining these groups often requires permission, but they can provide special access to for-sale items or deals.
“You’re also joining a community.
You become more of a part of the smaller community vs. the massive search feature on Marketplace.”
For another free option, join your localBuy Nothing Group.
Steer away from sellers with negative reviews or that look like scam listings.
Respond to Sellers Quickly
Another bonus of shopping on Facebook Marketplace?
The fact that almost everyone is constantly plugged into Facebook.
“Everyone’s on social media on a daily basis,” Mundo says.
If you’re nervous about going alone, take someone with you.
They may be willing to negotiate if it means an earlier pick-up.
Katie Mundo, Facebook Marketplace Shopper and Seller
“You always want to be polite.
Don’t be too aggressive when you’re negotiating.
Just be prepared to put a little work into a piece.
If you don’t want to do any DIY work, be prepared to cough up more cash.
If purchasing an item that’s not local, consider a video chat to confirm the details.
(Mundo got a high-end chairworth thousands of dollarson Facebook Marketplace for around $200.)
“And at half, if not a quarter, of the price.”
