9 Reasons Your Items Aren’t Selling On Facebook Marketplace

Dec 10

Lately, I’ve been seeing so many complaints that Facebook Marketplace is no longer working when it comes to selling used or even brand new items. Don’t fret— I’ve noticed it, too, so you aren’t alone. However, there are probably some things you’re doing wrong when it comes to selling on Facebook.

Check out this guide for a few reasons your stuff hasn’t sold:

1. It’s a bad time of the year. I’ve actually written blogs for most months of the year explaining why you may be struggling in that month specifically. I’ll link all of those at the end of this article, so you can click whichever month(s) to read some additional reasons.

2. The economy isn’t great. Many people are saving in fear of the future and others are already struggling to make ends meet. Unless whatever you’re selling is a necessity, it may not be a priority for people right now. I primarily sell furniture, and I’ve noticed that pieces like dressers and end tables are more likely to sell fast than coffee bars and armoires.

3. Your photos aren’t great. If you want people to purchase from you, you need to convince them. Don’t upload blurry photos or a single shot with a dirty wall in the background. Reduce clutter and decor and let the eyes focus only on the item you’re selling. Upload photos of the item from all angles. (PS: Facebook Marketplace is prioritizing items with videos in the listing. Just don’t forget to mute the video before uploading if you don’t want background noise.)

4. The listing description isn’t helpful or well-written. At minimum, your listing should describe the item, condition, color, measurements/size, general pick up location, payment options, and delivery/pickup info. No, most people will NOT bother reading it first, but some will. So it will reduce the number of people looking for an item in a different size.

5. You’re coming across as high maintenance or a little aggressive. I promise— the following statements DO NOT work and only make you seem mean:

No, I won’t give you my phone number!!!
NO SCAMMERS!!!!
If it’s still up, it’s still available!!!
Will not respond to “Is this still available”
Read full description— not answering messages.

6. You’re relying too heavily on Marketplace. I have far better luck in local Facebook groups. Mom groups are the best for my items, but join all of your local groups and see if you have better luck there.

7. The price is too high.

If you have time to spare, you may get lucky by waiting for the right buyer. But look at similar items on Facebook Marketplace… and remember THEY HAVEN’T SOLD YET. If someone is selling the same purse for $10,000… that just means they are ALSO waiting for it to sell. Try to beat the competition by offering competitive pricing. I also watch how quickly similar items sell at whatever priced they’re listed.

8. The item isn’t in high demand.

As a furniture flipper, I know what is needed and what isn’t. I once turned an armoire into a gorgeous reading nook for little kids. It took MONTHS to sell and I lost money in the end. If your item is specialty, rare, collectible, expensive, or even a little weird, you may need to sell on another site or be patient.

9. It may have nothing to do with the timing… check out this blog linked on things to try if your furniture (or other item) isn’t selling. You may have low quality photos, out of style items, or overpriced work for your demographic.

Your success in selling may also come down to the month of the year. I’ve noticed some months are far busier than others. Here are a list of blogs I wrote specific to each month of the year to help you analyze everything a little better.

Reasons Why Your Flipped Furniture (Or Other Items) May Not Be Selling In