Best Things to Flip on Facebook Marketplace: Top Picks

At Social Think, we know that Facebook Marketplace has become a go-to platform for savvy entrepreneurs looking to make some extra money by flipping products. With over 2.9 billion monthly active users on Facebook, the potential customer base is massive.

But what are the best items to buy and resell for a profit?

As experts in social media strategy and analytics, we’ve dug into the data to identify the top products to flip on Facebook Marketplace. We’ll share our insights and tips to help you start a successful side hustle or grow your reselling business. Let’s dive in!

What to Consider When Flipping Products?

Before we reveal the best things to sell on Facebook Marketplace, it’s important to understand what makes a product ideal for flipping.

Here are a few key factors to consider:

1. Demand: Look for items that are consistently in high demand. These products tend to sell quickly and at a good price.
2. Profit margin: Consider the cost of the item versus how much you can realistically sell it for. Aim for products with a healthy profit margin.
3. Condition: Products in good condition or those that can be easily refurbished are ideal for flipping. Avoid items with significant damage or flaws.
4. Shipping: If you plan to ship items, factor in those costs. Larger items or those that are fragile may eat into your profits.

With these considerations in mind, let’s explore some of the best products to flip on Facebook Marketplace.

The Best Things To Sell On Facebook Marketplace

1. Furniture: Furniture is consistently one of the most popular categories on Facebook Marketplace. Look for quality pieces at yard sales, estate sales, or thrift stores. Mid-century modern furniture and vintage pieces are especially in demand. Add a fresh coat of paint or new hardware to give old furniture new life and maximize your profit. You can also sell your own furniture on the marketplace, making it a great platform for both buying and selling junk and apparel.
2. Electronics: Electronic devices like smartphones, tablets, video game consoles, and laptops are great items to flip. Many people upgrade their devices regularly, so there’s always a market for gently used electronics at a good price. Be sure to test the devices and accurately describe any flaws in your listing.
3. Books: Books are easy to source and ship, making them an ideal product to flip. Look for popular titles, collectible editions, or textbooks. Use the ISBN to determine the book’s current retail price and set your price competitively.
4. Toys: Parents are always on the hunt for affordable toys, especially around the holidays. Look for popular brand name toys, action figures, and collectibles. Vintage toys from the 80s and 90s are also in high demand. Be sure to clean the toys and check for any missing pieces before listing.
5. Jewelry: Jewelry is a great item to flip because it’s small, easy to ship, and can have high profit margins. Look for quality pieces at estate sales or pawn shops. Vintage and designer jewelry are especially sought after. Be sure to accurately describe the condition and any flaws in your listing.
6. Vehicles: While flipping cars may require more upfront capital, the profit potential is significant. Look for reliable models that are a few years old. Give the car a good cleaning and address any minor repairs before listing. Be transparent about the vehicle’s condition and history in your description.
7. Instruments: Musical instruments like guitars, keyboards, and drums are popular items to flip. Many people are looking to start a new hobby or upgrade their current instrument. Look for quality instruments at pawn shops or music stores. Be sure to accurately describe the instrument’s condition and include any accessories.
8. Home Goods: Home decor and kitchenware are always in demand on Facebook Marketplace. Look for unique or vintage pieces at thrift stores or garage sales. Gently used small appliances like coffee makers or blenders are also good items to flip. Be sure to test the appliances and clean them thoroughly before listing.
9. Handmade Goods: If you’re crafty, consider flipping handmade goods like jewelry, candles, or artwork. These unique items can command higher prices and help you stand out from other sellers. Use high-quality materials and take attractive photos to showcase your products.
10. Sports & Fitness Equipment: Exercise equipment and sports gear are popular items to flip, especially at the beginning of the year when people are focused on their fitness resolutions. Look for gently used dumbbells, yoga mats, bikes, and other equipment. Be sure to clean the items and test them before listing.
11. Clothing, Shoes, & Accessories: Clothing and accessories are always in high demand on Facebook Marketplace. Look for popular brand name items in good condition. Vintage clothing and designer handbags are especially sought after. Be sure to accurately describe the size, condition, and any flaws in your listing.
12. Baby Supplies: Parents are always looking for affordable baby gear like strollers, car seats, and playpens. Look for gently used items at consignment sales or thrift stores. Be sure to check for any safety recalls and thoroughly clean the items before listing.
13. Seasonal Products: Seasonal items like holiday decor, winter coats, or pool toys can be great products to flip. Buy these items off-season when prices are low and sell them when demand peaks. For example, source Christmas decorations in January and sell them in November for a profit.
14. Hardware Tools: Quality tools are always in demand, especially among DIY enthusiasts. Look for gently used power tools, hand tools, and toolboxes at estate sales or pawn shops. Be sure to test the tools and accurately describe their condition in your listing.
15. Garden Tools And Plants: Gardening supplies and plants are popular items to flip, especially in the spring and summer. Look for gently used garden tools, pots, and planters at yard sales. Consider propagating popular plant varieties to sell as well.
16. Collectibles: Collectibles like sneakers, coins, stamps, trading cards, and action figures can be profitable items to flip. Look for rare or highly sought-after pieces. Be sure to research the value of the collectible and accurately describe its condition in your listing.
17. Trading Cards: Trading cards, especially sports cards and Pokémon cards, have seen a resurgence in popularity recently. Look for vintage cards or rare editions at card shops or online auctions. Be sure to properly store and protect the cards to maintain their value.

How to Flip Items (Step-By-Step)

1. Research profitable items on Facebook Marketplace in your area. Set a budget for sourcing products.
2. Look for items at thrift stores, yard sales, and online marketplaces. Check for damage and repair costs.
3. Clean, test, and get good photos of the items. Price competitively based on research and condition.
4. Create a listing with keywords, descriptions, and images. Share it online and respond to inquiries.
5. Arrange pickup or shipping safely. Complete the transaction and encourage reviews.
6. Reinvest profits to grow!

Who Should Sell on Facebook Marketplace?

Facebook Marketplace is an ideal platform for a variety of sellers, including:

1. Individuals looking to declutter and make some extra cash
2. Thrift store and yard sale enthusiasts who enjoy the thrill of the hunt
3. Crafters and artisans who want to sell their handmade goods
4. Small business owners looking to reach a local audience
5. Full-time resellers and flippers seeking a profitable side hustle or primary income

Facebook Marketplace Fees

One of the advantages of selling on Facebook Marketplace is that it’s free to list items. Unlike other platforms like eBay or Etsy, there are no listing fees or commissions taken by Facebook.

However, if you choose to offer shipping and accept payments through Facebook Checkout, there will be a 5% selling fee.

What Do You Need to Start Selling on Facebook?

To start selling on Facebook Marketplace, you’ll need:

1. A Facebook account
2. A smartphone or computer to create listings and communicate with buyers
3. A way to accept payments (cash for local sales, Facebook Checkout or PayPal for shipped items)
4. A safe location for local pickups (many police stations offer their lobby as a safe meeting spot)
5. Shipping supplies like boxes, tape, and labels if you plan to ship items

What Are The Fastest Selling Items On Facebook Marketplace?

Based on our analysis at Social Think, some of the fastest-selling items on Facebook Marketplace include:

1. Smartphones and tablets
2. Video game consoles
3. Furniture (especially mid-century modern and vintage pieces)
4. Baby gear (strollers, car seats, playpens)
5. Home decor and small appliances
6. Outdoor equipment (bikes, patio furniture, grills)
7. Toys and collectibles
8. Clothing and accessories (especially brand name and vintage items)

These items tend to be in consistently high demand and sell quickly at a competitive price.

Why Should You Resell on Facebook Marketplace?

There are several compelling reasons to start flipping items on Facebook Marketplace:

The Pros of Selling on Facebook Marketplace

1. Huge potential customer base with over 2.9 billion monthly active users
2. No listing fees or commissions (unless you use Facebook Checkout for shipping)
3. Easy to create listings and communicate with buyers through the Facebook interface
4. Ability to reach a local audience for in-person sales
5. Potential for high profit margins on popular items

The Cons of Selling on Facebook Marketplace

1. Dealing with haggling and low-ball offers from buyers
2. Potential for no-shows or flaky buyers
3. Risk of scams or fraudulent transactions
4. Need to follow Facebook’s selling policies and guidelines
5. Shipping can be challenging and eat into profits

Despite the potential drawbacks, many sellers find that the pros outweigh the cons and have built successful flipping businesses on Facebook Marketplace.

Tips For Selling On Facebook Marketplace

To maximize your success on Facebook Marketplace, follow these tips:

1. Take Multiple, High-Quality Product Photos: Showcase your items in the best light with clear, well-lit photos from multiple angles. Highlight any unique features or flaws for transparency.
2. Write In-Depth Descriptions: Provide as much detail as possible about the item’s condition, size, features, and history. Use relevant keywords to help buyers find your listing.
3. Use Keywords: Include popular search terms in your listing title and description to improve visibility. For example, mention the brand name, model number, or specific features.
4. Set Competitive Prices: Research the going rate for similar items and price yours competitively. Consider the item’s condition and your profit goals when setting a price.
5. Be Responsive And Polite: Respond promptly and professionally to buyer inquiries. Aim to provide excellent customer service to encourage positive reviews and repeat customers.
6. Always Be Safe: Choose a public location. Consider bringing a friend or family member with you.
7. Spruce Up Items Before Listing: Take the time to clean, repair, or refurbish items before listing them. A little extra effort can translate to higher selling prices and faster sales.

How To Stay Out of Trouble Using Facebook Marketplace?

To avoid issues when selling on Facebook Marketplace, keep these tips in mind:

1. Comply With Facebook Rules: Familiarize yourself with Facebook’s Commerce Policies and make sure your listings comply. Prohibited items include weapons, animals, and illegal products.
2. Avoid Scams: Be wary of buyers who offer to pay more than the listed price or request to use an unusual payment method. If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is.
3. Stick to Public Spaces: Never invite a buyer to your home or agree to meet in a private location. Stick to well-lit public spaces for your safety.
4. Understand Product Liability: If you’re selling a product that causes injury or damage, you could be held liable. Consider purchasing product liability insurance for your flipping business.
5. Understand Tax Liability: The income you earn from flipping items may be subject to taxes. Keep accurate records of your expenses and profits and consult with a tax professional.
6. Understand Business Obligations: Be sure to comply with any business licensing or permit requirements.

Alternative Ways to Sell Items For Profit

While Facebook Marketplace is a popular platform for flipping items, it’s not the only option.

Consider these alternative marketplaces:

1. eBay: Ideal for reaching a global audience and selling collectibles or niche items.
2. Craigslist: A classic choice for local sales, especially for larger items like furniture.
3. OfferUp: A mobile-first platform that’s popular for local sales.
4. Poshmark: A fashion-focused marketplace ideal for selling clothing, shoes, and accessories.
5. Etsy: Perfect for selling handmade, vintage, or craft supplies.

Diversifying your selling platforms can help you reach new customers and maximize your profits.

Is Product Flipping Right For You?

Flipping items on Facebook Marketplace can be a fun and profitable side hustle or even a full-time business. However, it’s not for everyone.

Consider these factors before diving in:

• Do you enjoy the thrill of the hunt and negotiating deals?
• Are you comfortable with the risks of buying and reselling products?
• Do you have the time and energy to source, list, and sell items consistently?
• Are you prepared to deal with challenging buyers and potential scams?
• Do you have a place to store inventory and supplies?

If you answered yes to most of these questions, flipping products on Facebook Marketplace might be a great fit for you!

FAQ’s:

What Can’t You Sell On Facebook Marketplace?

Facebook prohibits the sale of certain items, including weapons, animals, illegal products, and adult content. Review their Commerce Policies for a full list of prohibited items.

What Are Some Alternative Markets To Sell On?

Some popular alternatives to Facebook Marketplace include eBay, Craigslist, OfferUp, Poshmark, and Etsy. Each platform has its own strengths and target audiences.

How Can I Spot and Avoid Scams on Facebook Marketplace?

Be cautious of buyers who offer to pay more than the listed price, request unusual payment methods, or refuse to meet in person. Trust your instincts and if a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is.

Can I Sell Internationally on Facebook Marketplace?

Currently, Facebook Marketplace is designed for local sales within your community. While you may be able to arrange shipping with a buyer, the platform is not optimized for international sales.

How Does Facebook Marketplace Compare to Other Online Selling Platforms?

Facebook Marketplace has the advantage of a massive built-in audience, no listing fees, and easy communication with buyers. However, it lacks some of the seller protections and shipping infrastructure of platforms like eBay or Amazon.

Conclusion

Flipping products on Facebook Marketplace can be a lucrative way to earn extra income or even start a full-time business. By focusing on in-demand items, pricing competitively, and providing excellent customer service, you can build a successful flipping business.

At Social Think, we’re here to support your entrepreneurial journey with data-driven insights and strategies. Our social media analytics tools can help you identify trending products, optimize your listings, and grow your flipping business.

Ready to start flipping for profit? Sign up for Social Think today and let us help you turn your Facebook Marketplace side hustle into a thriving business. Your flipping success story starts here!