How To Use Facebook Marketplace like a Pro

One woman’s trash, another woman’s Nancy Meyers moment

Hi friends!

Let’s talk about one of my greatest joys ... Facebook Marketplace.

I’ve loved thrifting since I was a teenager. There’s something about uncovering a hidden gem — an antique pine dresser, a vintage picnic basket, the perfect set of blue and white pottery — that feels like magic. One person’s trash really is another’s treasure. And thanks to Facebook Marketplace, I can now thrift in bed while sipping my morning coffee. Dangerous? Yes. But also... worth it.

I found the carved wood chest in our entryway on Facebook Marketplace - such a good find. The big planters at the store and our wrought iron dining set came from there too. Marketplace really comes through when you're patient (and persistent).

I check it every morning. First thing.
I set the location radius to about 10–15 miles from home, and I search for things like:

• vintage picnic basket

• antique pine chest

• wrought iron patio set

• Jenny Lind bed frame

• blue and white pottery

• vintage tennis rackets

• wicker chairs

• planters

• coffee table books

After a while, the algorithm gets to know me, and suddenly it’s serving me this curated little feed of treasures that feels like it came straight out of a Ralph Lauren catalog. It’s so fun, and I’ve truly found some incredible pieces at amazing prices.

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A few of my tips if you’re new to the Marketplace game:

• Keep your radius small! I usually set mine to 10–15 miles so I know it’s easy to grab.

• Be specific in your searches - “vintage tennis rackets” or “Jenny Lind bed” instead of just “furniture.”

• If something looks good, message right away. The good stuff goes fast.

• Look for estate sale clear-outs - that’s where I’ve found incredible sets of vintage books and collections.

• Don’t be afraid to negotiate kindly - and always say thank you!

I usually send Brian to go pick things up (he has a pickup truck, which makes it all possible), and he’s driven all over for me, even into the far reaches of Facebook Marketplace territory. He calls it “Marketplace Missions,” and he’s a good sport about it.

I also love checking out Goodwill in person - especially the ceramics section. I’ve found so many sweet little vases, jars, and one-of-a-kind planters that way. Actually, the big planters we used at the store came from Marketplace too!

But maybe the best part? Almost every time I pick something up, the seller tells me a story. A couple parted with their coffee table books from 40 years of travels. A sweet woman sold me her wrought iron table and chairs and was just so happy it was going to someone who would love it. It makes me feel like I’m not just buying something - I’m continuing it. Carrying on the beauty and giving it a second life.

I swear, there’s nothing better than finding the perfect piece - especially when it’s a little weathered, a little charming, and has a story to tell.

Let me know if you’re a fellow Marketplace junkie - and what your favorite find has been! I could talk about this forever.

xx,
Liz