Need to sell your used appliances because you’re upgrading your washer, dryer or refrigerator?
Whether you are upgrading or recently moved into a new house there are plenty of ways to sell your used appliances for cash. In fact, some people make great side income, or even a full-time job by buying and selling at trade shows, flea markets, and online.
Keep reading to learn about all the other places who buy used appliances near you, and how to create epic listings that sell your items quickly.
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9 Unique Ways to Sell Used Appliances Near You (For Cash)
Here are the top 9 places to start selling your used appliances. The ones at towards the top of this list will generate more cash for a little more work. As you move your way down, the effort becomes easier and the sale amount usually is smaller.
1. Sell Your Appliances Using Facebook Marketplace
In Facebook’s attempt to take over the world you can also find buyers using their version of Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace to sell items. This is a great way to let your friends and connections know that you are selling your appliances.
The main benefit of using Facebook Marketplace over Craigslist is the trust factor. If you’re friends with someone on Facebook you automatically trust the individual more than a stranger on Craigslist.
Plus, Facebook Marketplace makes it easy to share your free listing with others. If you have a good appliance, people can choose to share with their networks as well as increasing your audience dramatically. Make sure to ask friends and family to share with others if you choose to list on Facebook Marketplace.
You can use the same description from your Craigslist ad and choose to edit contact information as well. This is a great way to sell your appliance quickly and easily.
How to Get Started Selling with Facebook Marketplace
To list and sell your appliances on Facebook Marketplace use these simple steps:
- From your mobile app click on the shop icon (looks like a house) at the bottom of the app.
- Upload the photos that you already used for Craigslist. There is no limit and remember that the more pictures the higher chance of converting viewers into buyers.
- Upload your description and change any terms and contact information.
- Add your price. You can use the same as Craigslist or choose to edit.
- Once sold, mark your item as sold to remove it from the marketplace.
That’s it! Plus, there are no transaction or listing fees as well. Facebook marketplace is a great option to sell your appliances quickly and easily.
2. Sell to Local Appliance Stores
If you don’t want to list online or deal with setting up a garage sale you can also sell your appliances to a local appliance store. Often times they have a used section as well as brand new appliances.
Make sure to call ahead and do some research to see what kind of pricing they offer. Also, specify if they will pick up and what type of charge it will cost. Sometimes, they will have it be a flat fee which is a great option if you have more than one item to sell.
3. Check with Resellers
Along with local appliance stores you can also sell items to local resellers. Check on Craigslist to see if you can find any. Typically, this will yield the lowest return as they are also trying to make a profit. But, if you need cash quick this is another viable option.
4. Have a Garage Sale
Garage sales are more old school than listing online but still a great way to sell your appliances for cash! There are still people who love Garage Sales and even apps like Varagesale and Yard Sale Treasure Map that can help you find garage sales near you!
A lot of buyers that visit garage sales are an older demographic who tend to enjoy the human interaction and seeing the items in person. Make sure you have the items in great condition and available to be picked up immediately.
To attract buyers to your garage sale make sure to list the garage sale on Craigslist. In the listing you can include several photos of the main items and list the others. Entice buyers to come to your yard sale by including your best photos and a short description.
If you want to spend a few dollars on advertising you can also do that as well. Put signs up around your neighborhood and let friends know on Facebook. The more visibility the more likely you are to sell the appliance quickly!
5. Sell to Scrap Metal Recyclers
Depending on where you live in the United States selling your appliances to a scrap metal recycler is another great option. But this option won’t be as easy as some of the others listed.
Not only do you need to transport the item you need to take it apart as they only will accept certain parts for each appliance. They tend to pay per pound but don’t accept just anything.
Make sure to contact several scrap metal recyclers if possible as they can pay different amounts. Plus, some of these facilities won’t accept scrap metal so make sure to do your homework before loading up your appliances and heading over.
6. Recycle For a Reward
18 of the 50 states allow you sell your appliances and make money via recycling. While the amount isn’t much, usually ranging from $25-$100 this is an option that is good for the environment and your wallet.
7. Use 1-800-GOT-JUNK
While I can’t say I’ve used 1-800-GOT-JUNK it’s another great option with minimal stress to get rid of unwanted appliances. You can schedule a no-obligation appointment online or contact them via phone.
They will come to your home and give you an estimate based on everything they will remove. Their prices are based on the total volume of how much your “junk” is taking in the truck. They will help you move the item, regardless of where it is in your home, and load into their truck.
They donate or recycle as much as possible and will charge you a one-time fee. If there isn’t a franchise close to you there might be a local establishment similar to 1-800-GOT-JUNK to help you as well.
8. Have Local Stores Pickup Your Appliances
If you don’t have a vehicle or don’t want to rent one, you can also choose to have a local store pickup your appliance. In the past, they used to actually pay you but this isn’t the case anymore.
Here are some of the common stores found nationwide that can help you get rid of your appliances.
Best Buy
Best Buy is of the last big box stores still surviving and will help you with your appliances. If you are buying new ones through them the fee is $14.99 to haul out your old. Well worth the price and hassle!
But, if you want them to remove additional items that you aren’t replacing there is another $99 fee as well.
Lowe’s
If you are replacing your appliances with Lowe’s your options are more limited than others on this list. While it’s said to vary by location is appears online that they only remove if you use a Lowe’s Business Credit account.
Make sure to contact them directly as you might be able to work out some sort of arrangement if you have one of their store cards or a frequent customer.
Sears
Sears is a dying brand that only has 500 locations nationwide but can help you with your appliances. They will only help if you are getting ones replaced and you have them uninstalled and ready to go for a one-time fee of $25. They will not come into your home, uninstall or help you move them.
Home Depot
Home Depot does offer to help you get rid of old appliances if you are replacing old ones. Make sure to contact your local store as some review sites have said that each location has a different policy. If you’re in store make sure to double check and negotiate to ensure you aren’t responsible for removing old appliances.
Costco
If you use their complete installation package Costco will remove and haul away your old appliances when replacing a similar one. This is 100% free service!
9. Donate Large Appliances
If you want to simply get rid of your appliances and aren’t worried about the cash, you can also choose to donate them as well. Not only will this good deed help others in need it can be used as a tax write off in the future.
Local stores and charities can sometimes pickup as well. If you have other things you’d like to donate you can also add as well.
Check out these sites to see if there are places locally:
- Salvation Army: Salvation Army will come to you directly and not charge anything for your donation. Make sure you receive a donation valuation guide for tax purposes as well.
- Habitat For Humanity: Like Salvation Army, they do not charge anything and can help you get rid of your biggest appliances.
- Goodwill: Very similar to the ones above, Goodwill offers free pickup for your large appliances that you wish to donate.
- St. Vincent De Paul: Contact the nearest Catholic Church in your community and ask if they have a Society of St. Vincent de Paul Conference in their parish or know of one in your area for a free pickup and donation.
9 Ways to Create an Epic Listing That Will Sell Your Appliance
The most common place to sell used appliances, or anything locally, is still Craigslist. But with Facebook Marketplace and apps like Offer Up, it doesn’t hurt to list them in several places as well.
In high school I started selling items on eBay and Craigslist for extra money and got pretty good at it. I found there were certain things that helped each listing sell consistently.
Here are nine steps to create a listing to sell your appliances or anything else for that matter.
Step 1. Use a Catch Worthy Title
Like blogging or writing anything online, your title can make or break your listing. If you have a title like “ancient dishwasher” no one is going to want to buy it. Instead, you want to have something like “ Like-New dishwasher, with X & X features. “ That type of title will entice people to open up the listing.
Step 2. Create an Epic Description
Once you get them to click on the listing you need to have a great description and pictures. The description can make or break your ability to actually sell the appliance. Most importantly, your description needs to be 100% honest and accurate. Otherwise, it makes for a very awkward exchange when you meet the buyer in person.
You want to be 100% accurate with the condition of the appliance! If there are dents, scuffs, marks, or anything that is not working make sure to let them know. Talk about the use of the appliance, if anything doesn’t work, upgrades you’ve done and why you are choosing to sell the item.
Often times people are skeptical if you are pricing a good item at a price that seems too good to be true. Be honest about why you are selling this item. Are you upgrading? Moving? Or did it come with the house when you moved in? The more details the better the potential buyer will feel.
Lastly, you want the description to be informative and helpful to the potential buyer. A great idea is to try and find the model online and copy and paste the description. This way you can make sure it includes all the features, benefits, and exact size specifications.
Step 3. Link to Helpful Resources
The more expensive the appliance the more research people will do online to make sure they are getting a good deal. If possible, spend a few minutes researching the make and model of each appliance.
Try to find reviews, comparisons, and even manufacturer information to include these links within your description. Make it easy for buyers to say yes!
Step 4. Take Amazing Pictures of Your Item
Isn’t it awful when you look at something online and when you show up it’s totally different in person? Whether it’s a car, apartment, or something like this on Craigslist, it’s incredibly disappointing and generally a waste of time. Don’t be this person by providing fake pictures.
Instead, take amazing pictures of your item to be honest with potential buyers and show off the item. If you can find the model online, include one or two stock photos and five or more photos of the actual item.
You don’t need to get a professional camera as smartphones are better than ever. If you have an iPhone X with portrait mode use that as well. Make sure to have plenty of lighting and a good clean background. You don’t want a slightly used washer next to a bunch of junk in your garage. Make the environment look appealing for your potential buyers.
If you want to be an overachiever and increase your odds of making the sale, you can also film a short video of the appliance working. This can be one or two minutes and be uploaded to Youtube in the same amount of time. Include the link in the description to give people more confidence that the item will work as described!
Step 5. Price Your Appliance Competitively
With Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace or Offer Up bartering is part of the process. You want to make sure you have competitive pricing but not too high or low. Too high makes it hard to compete with similar listings and too low makes it hard to barter. Instead, shop around these sites to find similar listing priced competitively.
If you are set on the price, make sure to let them know in the listing. Otherwise, include something like “will negotiate” or “OBO” which stands for “or best offer.” This way there isn’t’ any confusion when you meet with potential buyers on price.
Step 6. Specify Delivery
This is 100% your choice! As not everyone has trucks or trailers this can be a way to earn extra money with your appliances. Pre-negotiate a rate that is cheaper than renting one at U-Haul but enough to make sure it will cover your gas, time, and hassle. Make sure you learn their zip code so you can check the proximity and give them an accurate price.
If it’s a large item that is too heavy make sure there is someone there that can help you move the item as well. You don’t want to get injured as you’ll most likely be liable for any injuries that may happen. This is why having them pick up can be a betty option depending on your situation.
Step 7. Specify Payment Methods & Refund Policy
While there are tons of great ways to pay online the best way to pay for things on Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, or Offer Up is still cash. Checks can be voided and bank transfers can be canceled which can leave you empty handed.
Sometime buyers will try to trade other items but I always recommend going with cash and not offering any refunds. In the description make sure to include that the item is sold as is and state clearly your refund policy (if any).
Step 8. Include Best Contact Information
I’ve bought and sold hundreds of things on Craigslist and communication is key to making it happen. I’ve literally had buyers contact me and arrive within minutes if I was available. The quicker the communication the more likely you are to make the sale happen.
If you don’t want to include your phone make sure to leave your best email address so buyers can contact you with questions or inquiries. Also, make sure to whitelist Craigslist or Offer Up as it’s easy for them to go into spam and not see the messages until it’s too late.
Step 9. Closing the Deal
Once you do communicate with the buyer via text, call or email I always use presumptive language. Instead of saying “Do you want to look at the item?” say “When do you want to pick up?” Change the psychology and assume they already want to buy your appliance becuase you’ve created such a compelling listing.
If they aren’t sold and want to come look at in person make sure to specify a date and time. The sooner the better! I’ve found that buyers flake easily on these sites so try to meet them the same day if possible for both of you. Like I mentioned, I’ve literally had people arrive within minutes.
Also, if they are trying to push the date a few days out or seem flaky I recommend adding a deadline by saying there are other options or someone is coming sooner that day or the day before. Create urgency to get rid of your appliance, make money, and get the buyers to take action!
Lastly, always take precautions for your own safety. Craigslists and relevant sites still have individuals that ruin the experience for everyone. Always meet somewhere public if possible and if you do so at your home have someone else there as well.
Can Flipping Appliances Be a Side Hustle?
There are so many ways to make money outside your 9-5. Whether you are starting a blog, flea market flipping or selling used appliances, there have been more ways to earn money quickly.
If you don’t have the time or desire to start an online business this could be a great side hustle idea. The number one thing you will need to start this side hustle is a truck and/or trailer to help you transport larger electronics. Sorry, your small gas-saving car won’t work for this one!
Also, you will generally not be able to buy and sell them instantly. You will either need space a garage, the side of your house, or a storage unit. Storage units are a great place to store them and not annoy your family or neighbors with large, clunky appliances around your home. Plus, they can help if you live in an apartment or condo.
Where to Find Used Appliances
Most people start this side hustle by scouring craigslist. While it’s a great place to start don’t be afraid to check out your local flea markets, swap meets, and Offer Up. Once you begin searching, make sure the appliances are in good shape and as it will make it easy to resell them in the near future.
If you consider yourself a handy person this is also a good side hustle as the repairs can be easy for some people to fix and make huge returns. For others, it might take some more time watching Youtube videos and learning more about the business.
Personally, I’m extremely unhandy and wouldn’t consider this side hustle as I can barely change an air filter in my house but this is great for someone who likes to repair things. If you’re ready to start this side hustle here is what you’ll want to look at before picking up an appliance:
- Priced low enough that you can make money reselling
- Appliances that are close enough to your location to make it worth your gas and time to pick them up
- Ones that are in good shape so you have minimal, if any, repairs to avoid frustration
1. How to Find the Right Priced Appliances
If you want to make this a great side hustle you have to become a great bargain shopper. The only way to make money flipping anything is to buy low and sell high. I tried flea market flipping in the past and never had luck as I didn’t have a specialty item I was trying to flip.
But, if you make appliance flipping your main hustle you will get a good understanding what’s valuable and what’s junk. You can browse items online on Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace or free apps.
Make sure to also check garage sales, the free section of craigslist and even stores closing near you. Often times when stores are closing they will try to liquidate everything which can help you find a great deal.
2. How to Save Money on Gas and Find Appliances That Aren’t Too Far Away
Depending on where you live gas is very expensive, especially in the summertime with a large truck. Before driving to the location try to calculate in advance how much it will cost to buy, repair (if needed), gas, time, and profit. If you are driving an hour to only make $100, spend $20 in gas is it really worth it?
If possible, try to create a route where you can stop by different locations or flea markets to save gas money and make the most out of your time. Saturday’s are a great day to meet with vendors, visit flea markets, or stop by garage sales. Map out your route and stops in advance.
3. Picking the Right Appliances to Flip
When it comes to selling large appliances you don’t have to just think about washers and dryers. You can also buy and sell refrigerators, chest freezers, and dishwashers. Some of the items will be bigger than others and also require more handiness if you need to repair.
I recommend starting with a niche so you can become more of an “expert” and it will also make repairs simple and easy. If you try to sell all large appliances it can be difficult to know the ins and outs of repair and pricing each item. Plus, some items might be too big to transport or store.
Find Rebates for Cash Back
The last thing you can do to make money for your appliances is to take advantage of tax credits, rebate, insurance savings, and others to save big on any new appliances you are purchasing. Make sure to check out these sites and act quick as they are given on a first come first serve basis.
- Contact Your Local Utility Provider: Depending on your utility company they might give you an incentive or rebate for switching to a more energy efficient appliance. Call ahead and contact them for a list of approved appliances before shopping or purchasing.
- Contact Your Home Insurance Provider: If you are a homeowner you can also contact your home insurance provider to see if you can receive a discount. This will be different for each provider so make sure to call ahead.
- Find an Online Rebate: The biggest brands like PG&E and GE are always offering different rebates for new appliances. Sometimes this saving can be huge so make sure to not skip out on this easy money!
- Energystar.gov: This site will help you find rebates on energy efficient appliances by zip code and product.
- Energy.gov: Use this site to find appliance tax credits, savings, and rebates for the state you live in. Some states have huge amounts of savings!
Final Thoughts
There are no shortages of ways to get rid of your old, used, or unwanted appliances and turning those items into cash or a check in your name. At the end of the day, it really comes down to how much time and effort you want to spend offloading these items.
You can choose to sell them yourself using Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace or relevant apps quickly and cheaply. Or, if you have other items in your home you can have a good old-fashioned garage sale and declutter your house and garage.
If you don’t feel like they are worth much or want to minimize the effort you can always sell to local stores, resellers, flea markets or cash in for scrap metal.
Lastly, you can choose to donate these items to help others in need. Not only is this a good deed but a tax write off as well.
One Comment
My mom, as well as my sister and I, have so many used appliances that we want to dispose of. That is why it really helped when you said that we can sell them for cash, cool! I am going to share this information with them so we can decide on when we should sell them at the same time.