Garage sales is a term used to describe the process of selling used goods by people in a local setting. Also called Yard sales, this is an informal process, so the sellers do not need to have a registered business or pay tax. The sold products are usually items considered unwanted by the sellers but are still in usable condition. These items include: Home appliances, Books, Toys, Sport equipment. These garage sales are growing on platforms like Facebook.
Usually, garage sales are done just outside the owner’s house. An open area like a garage is most suitable, hence the name. The items are displayed so that passers-by can easily see them and hopefully come to take a look. Recently, hosting garage sales on social media has gained momentum. Social media platforms now allow this, and Facebook is one of the most popular. People now go to Facebook to host their virtual garage sales or purchase items from Facebook garage sales.
Garage Sales on Facebook
Facebook has made garage sales a lot easier. You don’t need to own a garage or display items in public places. You only need a smartphone and a Facebook account. Besides being more convenient, you get to connect with a larger audience. You can decide to host your garage sales there on Facebook or advertise your real-life garage sales. Pictures of your items from different views help in attracting customers. This way, you get to reach more potential buyers. Using the Facebook marketplace is completely free, so you do not need to factor in any charges when projecting your profit.
How to Host A Sale on Facebook
As earlier mentioned, you only need a smartphone and a Facebook account. Some people opt to create a new profile just to host a sale. They believe it is not ethical to carry out such an activity with a personal account. However, in my opinion, it is best to use your existing account. It gives your garage sale more credibility, and customers feel safer buying items from you. To get started, click on the menu icon on your Facebook page and go to Marketplace on the next screen. Then, proceed to add information about your garage sales. This information should include the following:
• Your location
• Type of item
• Description of item
• Clear pictures of the item
The last step is publishing your garage sale. When you do this, Facebook will automatically start to advertise your products. You can also make posts of your garage sales in related groups and communities there on Facebook.
How To Receive Payment from Your Facebook Garage Sales
When you host a garage sale on Facebook, you have 100% control of the entire process. This means that Facebook does not interfere with any part of the process. If a buyer sees an item they’re interested in buying, they will contact you there on the platform. Then you can negotiate with them about the price and method of delivery and finalize an arrangement. You will receive your payment through the agreed method. The most popular payment method on Facebook and other online marketplace is Paypal. Then you can proceed to ship the products to them at their location. If you’re only advertising your real-life garage sale on Facebook, you can arrange to meet with the buyer in person and receive your payment in cash.
How to Purchase Items on Facebook Garage Sales
The procedure for purchasing items on the Facebook marketplace is also simple. On your Facebook page, go to the Marketplace section and search for the item you are looking to get. You will be able to access items that match your description. You will also get to see basic information about the item, like the price, location of the seller, and some pictures of the item.
Conclusion
The Facebook garage sales are similar to the real-life version, but with some advantages. You get to host your garage sales online or advertise real-life ones. You also get to reach out to more people and increase your chance of making sales. You do not have to pay Facebook any money for hosting and advertising your garage sales. You can also purchase items from garage sales on Facebook using the Marketplace feature.
FAQs
How Much Does Facebook Charge for Every Sale?
For each sale you make from your garage sales, Facebook will charge you a 5% commission for items that need to be shipped out. For sales less than $8, you will only get charged a fee of $0.4. If the sales are within your area, there are no charges attached.
Do I Have to Pay Commission As A Buyer?
You will not be charged any fees for purchasing items on the Facebook marketplace. You will only have to pay the flat cost of the item.
Is It Safe to Use Facebook Garage Sales?
Yes, buying and selling items on the Facebook marketplace is totally safe.
