how to consign furniture

3 min read 31-01-2025

Meta Description: Unlock the potential of your unwanted furniture! This comprehensive guide reveals how to successfully consign furniture, maximizing your profits and minimizing hassle. Learn about choosing the right consignment shop, preparing your pieces, negotiating prices, and more. Get started today and turn your clutter into cash!

Why Consign Your Furniture?

Selling used furniture can be a fantastic way to declutter your home and earn some extra cash. Instead of donating or throwing away gently used pieces, consigning offers a middle ground. You get a portion of the sale price, avoiding the hassle of individual online listings or yard sales. It’s a win-win!

Choosing the Right Consignment Shop

Finding the right partner is key to a successful furniture consignment experience. Consider these factors:

Reputation and Reviews:

Check online reviews on Google, Yelp, and other platforms. Look for consistent positive feedback about customer service, payment processes, and the shop's overall professionalism.
Visit the shop in person to assess its overall condition and the quality of furniture currently on display. This gives you a feel for their target market and the type of pieces they sell successfully.

Commission Rates:

Consignment shops typically take a percentage of the sale price. Shop around to compare rates; they can vary significantly. A lower commission means more money in your pocket.
Ask about their payment schedule. Some shops pay upon sale, while others may have a set payment cycle (e.g., monthly).

Target Market:

Consider the shop's clientele. Does it align with the style and price point of your furniture? A high-end consignment shop may be a better fit for antique or designer pieces.

Contract Terms:

Carefully read any consignment agreement before signing. Pay close attention to the duration of the consignment period, the shop's responsibility for damaged goods, and the process for unsold items.

Preparing Your Furniture for Consignment

Presentation is crucial. A well-prepared piece is more likely to sell quickly and at a higher price.

Cleaning:

Thoroughly clean your furniture. Dust, vacuum, and polish to remove any dirt or grime. For upholstered pieces, consider professional cleaning for a fresher look. A clean piece shows care and attracts buyers.

Repairing:

Address any minor repairs, like tightening loose screws or fixing small scratches. Major repairs might be cost-prohibitive, but minor fixes improve the overall appeal.

Staging:

Consider staging your furniture in a way that highlights its best features. High-quality photos are essential; consider hiring a professional photographer if you're selling high-value items.

Accurate Description:

Provide the consignment shop with a detailed description of your furniture, including dimensions, materials, age (if known), and any unique features. Accuracy builds trust with potential buyers.

Negotiating the Price

Research: Check online marketplaces (like eBay or Chairish) to see comparable pieces and their pricing. This helps you set a realistic expectation for your furniture's value.
Collaboration: Work with the consignment shop to agree on a price. They have expertise in pricing within their market. Be open to negotiation but also advocate for your furniture’s value.

What Happens After You Consign?

Monitoring Sales: Depending on the shop's policies, you might be able to track the progress of your consigned items. Some shops provide online dashboards or regular updates.
Payment: Receive your payment according to the shop's agreed-upon schedule. This usually happens after the sale is complete and the shop has received payment from the buyer.
Unsold Items: Discuss the shop's policy regarding unsold items. Some shops will extend the consignment period, while others may offer to donate or dispose of the pieces.

Consignment vs. Selling Online: Which is Right For You?

While online platforms like Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace offer more control over pricing and sales, they demand significant time and effort for photography, listings, communication with buyers, and handling transactions and shipping. Consignment shifts the burden to the shop, making it a more convenient – though potentially less profitable – option.

Conclusion

Consigning your furniture can be a rewarding experience. By following these steps and choosing the right consignment shop, you can successfully sell your used pieces and make some extra money. Remember to thoroughly research your options and be realistic about pricing expectations to achieve the best results. Happy selling!