Buying used furniture online is a smart way to furnish your home without overspending. Whether you're seeking vintage charm, sustainable options, or a unique centerpiece, secondhand furniture offers possibilities you won’t find in big-box stores. But with so many platforms and sellers, navigating the world of online pre-owned furniture can feel overwhelming especially if you're unsure how to spot the good from the bad.

That’s where we come in. At Reperch, we believe in giving pre-loved items a second life while helping you make informed, confident purchases. Below are our top 10 tips to ensure your online furniture shopping experience is safe, smart, and stylish.

1. Know What You’re Looking For

Before you even open a browser tab, take a moment to define what you need. Are you looking for a statement piece like a mid-century coffee table or something functional like a home office chair? Measure your space carefully and decide on the style, size, color, and functionality that suits your room. Knowing exactly what you’re looking for will help you avoid impulse buys and narrow your search to items that genuinely work for your space.

Pro Tip: Keep a list of must-have dimensions handy while browsing. A piece might be beautiful, but if it doesn't fit, it's not a smart buy.

2. Stick to Reputable Platforms

There’s no shortage of online marketplaces, but not all are created equal. Choose well-known platforms like Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, OfferUp, Reperch, AptDeco, Kaiyo, or Chairish. These websites typically have buyer protections, clearer product listings, and easier communication with sellers.

If you’re using smaller platforms or buying from individual sellers via social media, look for reviews, ratings, and active engagement to judge their credibility.

3. Ask the Right Questions

Once you’ve found a piece that piques your interest, don’t hesitate to reach out to the seller for more information. Ask about the item’s age, condition, usage history, and whether it’s been kept in a smoke-free or pet-free home. Clarify if any repairs or alterations have been made. This can give you valuable insight into the item’s longevity and help you decide if it’s worth the investment.

Questions to ask:

• Are there any defects or repairs?

• Is the structure sturdy?

• Are the drawers or hinges fully functional?

• Why are you selling it?

4. Examine Photos Closely

Photos are your best friend when buying furniture online. Always look for listings with multiple, well-lit images showing the item from all angles front, back, sides, close-ups of hardware, and any flaws or damage. If the photos seem low quality or only show part of the furniture, ask for more. A trustworthy seller will be happy to provide additional pictures.

Look for: Discoloration, water stains, chipped edges, worn fabric, missing parts, and misaligned drawers or legs.

5. Research the Brand and Material

It’s easy to fall in love with a piece online, but before you click “buy,” do a quick background check. If the brand is mentioned in the listing, look it up. Some manufacturers are known for long-lasting craftsmanship, while others might not hold up over time.

Also, understand the difference between materials. Solid wood, for instance, generally lasts longer than particle board or MDF. A little homework can help you determine whether a piece is worth its asking price.

6. Prioritize Cleanliness and Hygiene

Upholstered items are cozy, but they can harbor smells, stains, allergens, or even pests like bedbugs. When buying a sofa, mattress, or fabric chair online, proceed with caution. Avoid heavily used or hard-to-clean pieces unless you plan to reupholster them.

If you do buy fabric-covered furniture, ask if it was professionally cleaned or kept in a smoke-free, pet-free home. Wood and metal furniture, on the other hand, is much easier to clean and sanitize before bringing it indoors.

7. Test for Functionality (When Possible)

While this isn’t always feasible with online shopping, try to inspect the item in person if local pickup is available. Test the chair’s stability, pull out drawers, open cabinet doors, and examine joint connections. If in-person inspection isn't possible, ask the seller to provide a short video showing the furniture in use. This extra step can help you avoid surprises when the item arrives.

8. Negotiate Respectfully

Don’t be afraid to haggle! Sellers often expect a bit of negotiation and may price slightly higher than they’re willing to accept. Be polite and fair in your offers, especially if you’ve noticed minor flaws or if the item has been listed for a while.

Sample message:
 “I love this piece and would like to buy it. Would you be open to $80 instead of $100? I can pick it up tomorrow.”

Being kind and courteous goes a long way and increases your chances of scoring a better deal.

9. Factor In Transport and Delivery

So you found the perfect dresser great! But how are you going to get it home? Before buying, confirm the delivery options. Some sellers offer drop-off for an additional fee, while others require local pickup. If transport isn’t included, you may need to rent a truck or hire movers, which can significantly impact your budget.

Calculate all costs, including transportation, cleaning, or minor repairs, before finalizing your purchase. That “cheap” item might not be such a steal once everything is added up.

10. Trust Your Instincts

Last but not least trust your gut. If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is. If a seller is being evasive or avoiding questions, move on. Safety is also critical, especially when meeting someone in person to exchange furniture. Choose public pickup spots or bring a friend along for added security.

It’s okay to walk away from a deal that doesn’t feel right. There are always new listings and better opportunities just around the corner.

Bonus Tip: Know What to Avoid

Not everything is worth buying secondhand. Steer clear of:

• Used mattresses (hygiene concerns)

• Furniture with deep odors or pet urine damage

• Broken or severely unstable items

• Baby cribs or items with outdated safety standards

Instead, focus your efforts on solid wood pieces, vintage finds, accent tables, chairs, or storage items that can be cleaned, restored, or updated with ease.

Final Thoughts: Save Big Without Sacrificing Style

Buying used furniture online offers the perfect mix of style, sustainability, and savings but only if you shop smart. With a bit of research, attention to detail, and a dash of patience, you can find beautiful, functional pieces that elevate your space and reflect your personality. At Reperch, we make this process even easier by curating high-quality secondhand items, offering a streamlined shopping experience, and helping you avoid the pitfalls of online buying.

Happy hunting and remember, the best homes are built piece by piece with purpose, care, and character.