Top 6 Home Essentials to Snag on Facebook Marketplace

Area Rugs

The designer advises sticking to wool or wool-cotton blend rugs for durability. "Investing in a professional rug cleaner ensures your purchase remains pristine for years," she explains, emphasizing the importance of factoring in maintenance costs during your search.

Search Tips

Keyes suggests entering the rug’s style and dimensions, occasionally including a color for specificity (e.g., “Red Persian Rug 8 x 10"). For a specific brand, add its name after this phrase.

Pickup Checklist

Thorough inspection is crucial. "Always unroll the entire rug, even if it’s a hassle," Keyes advises. "Minor wear adds character, but avoid rugs with structural damage like rips, tears, or unraveling edges." She notes that while stains and odors can often be removed with professional cleaning, heavily stained rugs are best avoided.

Mirrors

Ghani recommends browsing Marketplace for mirrors. "It’s a treasure trove for stunning decorative mirrors in various sizes, perfect for entryways, bathrooms, or fireplace mantels," she explains.

Search Tips

Ghani favors mirrors crafted from genuine hand-carved wood, gold leaf, 70s-era convex designs, and tole mirrors. She suggests searching terms like "regency mirror," "gold mirror," "gilt mirror," and "vintage mirror" to uncover hidden gems.

Pickup Checklist

Examine the mirror’s frame for chips or damage—while some patina can add charm, it might not always match your expectations. For larger, heavier mirrors, inquire with the seller about mounting hardware or installation tips.

Artwork

Search Tips

Tailor your search to be broad or precise. For instance, look up "abstract art" or "framed photographs," or specify a favorite artist (e.g., "framed Gray Malin"). Ghani also recommends terms like "oil painting," "vintage artwork," "framed art," "custom framed," and "lithograph."

Pickup Checklist

Verify that the piece advertised as an original isn’t a reproduction. Inspect the frame as well—if it’s damaged and requires replacement, this could provide leverage for negotiating a better price with the seller.

Drapery Panels

Upgrade those outdated window coverings you’ve had forever. "Many people sell their drapery, which is both eco-friendly and budget-friendly," Keyes explains. "It’s a sustainable alternative to buying brand new."

Keyes offers another tip: "If you have a skilled seamstress, you can purchase custom panels or Roman shades and have them tailored to fit your space perfectly," she suggests.

Search Tips

Keyes refines her searches by focusing on brand and dimensions. "I’ve discovered luxury panels by using terms like 'custom curtains' or 'designer curtains,'" she notes.

Pickup Checklist

Just like with rugs, inspect curtains thoroughly. "Always unfold, check, and measure the entire panel," she advises. "I’ve mistakenly bought panels that shrank after washing and were no longer the correct length—definitely not ideal."

Coffee Table Books

Built-in shelves in many homes crave attention, but new books can be pricey. "My coffee table book collection keeps expanding because I can’t resist the secondhand options," Ghani shares. She highlights that these books often come in sets of 10 or even 20.

Search Tips

Search by general themes (e.g., "fashion books") or specific authors/subjects (e.g., "Slim Aarons photography book"), but broader searches like "coffee table books" often yield the best results.

Pickup Checklist

Before collecting your book, it’s wise to check online to ensure you’re getting a good deal. You might find another used copy at a comparable or lower price, delivered straight to your home.

Overhead Lighting

Vintage lighting can be a treasure trove. "I discovered stunning 70s mod chrome sconces that perfectly finished my client’s powder room for just $260 a pair," Ghani shares. "An unbeatable find."

Search Tips

Keyes recommends searching by brand names to uncover those high-end pieces you’ve been dreaming of.

Pickup Checklist

Ensure all mounting hardware is included and verify that the pole or chain length suits your space, the designer advises.