How the estimate works
Every kind of item starts from a typical share of its new price when it first resells, then loses a little more each year, down to a floor it rarely goes below. A sofa, for example, tends to resell for less than half its price even when nearly new, and keeps sliding; a bike or a solid wood dresser holds its value longer. Condition and build quality then move the price up or down.
| Condition | What it means | Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Like new | No visible wear, all parts, works perfectly | Full estimate |
| Good | Light wear you’d only notice up close | About 20% less |
| Fair | Scratches, stains or a repair, still works | About 45% less |
Three prices, three jobs
- List it at is where to start. It leaves a little room, because your price will drop over the coming days.
- Quick-sale price is for when you need it gone in a day or two.
- Lowest to accept is about 40% of the asking price: the floor your daily price drops stop at.
Before you sell
Check baby gear, furniture that can tip over, and small appliances against the CPSC recall list: selling a recalled product is illegal. And if the item is bulky and cheap, compare what it costs to move with what it’s worth in sell it or move it?
More detail in how to price used furniture.