Let’s face it, FB Marketplace can be a hassle, people not showing up, sellers ghosting you and worse! In my experience you can simplify interactions and increase the likelihood of scoring some killer deals by following the suggestions below…
- Be polite, respectful and use proper grammar when interacting with buyers & sellers. Seems simple, but you would be surprised at the idiots I have come across.
- If you are going to low-ball someone, at least do it in person. Take the time to view the item for sale, feel free to casually talk it down, point out any damage etc that may lower the value, then respectfully throw your offer out there. Note: If the seller listed the item and pricing is FIRM, do not pull this maneuver, as they are likely to send you packing in a hurry.
- Be on time! I always send a firm ETA when I am in my truck and on my way. Google maps is usually accurate to the minute in my area so there is no excuse to leave ETA’s vague. I also let the seller know what my vehicle looks like so they know when I pull up.
- ALWAYS, ALWAYS ask if there is anything else for sale! I have scored more items this way. I will casually mention that I collect old tools and ask if they have anything else laying around. I have also turned pickups for out of the area friends into a score for myself. You can usually see on FB Marketplace the sellers profile and other items they have listed, but often times there will be plenty of other goodies for sale as well.
- Losing a hot item sucks, don’t let it ruin your day or your reputation! If a seller sells something out from under you, or raises prices because idiots are whispering in their ear about the true value of something, just let it go. Karma is a real thing and pissing off a seller may ruin a deal in the future.
- Give a personal connection to an item you may be looking to buy, let the seller know what owning their old bench vise or drill press would mean to you. It’s always easier for a seller to hold and item and ignore those voices from other buyers behind you in line, if there is a personal connection. I am not suggesting lying, and if you are buying to resell, they be open about it if asked.
- Leave reviews and ask for reviews! People can see your Marketplace ratings and will see you are an honest buyer/seller and interactions tend to go smoother.