Is This Still Available? And Other Questions To Ask Marketplace Sellers 

Before buying from a Facebook Marketplace seller, ask about the item’s condition, measurements, history, included parts, pickup requirements, and payment method. For a higher-priced purchase, request a current video or live call before paying or making the drive. 

The exact questions depend on what you’re buying. A used dress doesn’t require the same investigation as a vehicle, but both listings can leave out important details. 

What Should You Ask Every Marketplace Seller? 

Start by confirming that the item exists, is still available, and matches the listing. 

Ask: 

• Are the photos current? 

• Why are you selling it? 

• Are there problems that aren’t shown or described? 

• Is anything missing? 

• Is the price firm? 

• What general area is pickup in? 

A seller should be able to answer basic questions about something they own. Be cautious if the answers are consistently vague or don’t match the listing. 

What Should You Ask When Buying Used Furniture? 

Ask for the exact measurements, materials, condition, and pickup requirements. 

Useful questions include: 

• What are the height, width, and depth? 

• What material is it made from? 

• Are there scratches, stains, cracks, loose joints, or missing hardware? 

• Do the drawers, doors, and moving parts work? 

• Has it been repaired or refinished? 

• Does it have any noticeable odors? 

• Has it been exposed to smoke, pets, moisture, or pests? 

• Can it be disassembled for transport? 

If something is broken, request close-up photos and ask whether all damaged or missing pieces are included. You can also ask whether the condition has already been reflected in the price. 

For pickup, confirm whether the item is upstairs, whether there is an elevator, and whether anyone can help load it. 

What Should You Ask When Buying Used Clothing or Accessories? 

Ask for the labeled size, exact measurements, fabric content, condition, and information about how the item fits. 

Because sizing varies between brands and decades, “true to size” may not tell you enough. Depending on the garment, request the: 

• Chest or pit-to-pit measurement 

• Waist and hip measurements 

• Inseam and rise 

• Sleeve or total garment length 

Also ask whether the item runs small or large, has been altered, or has stretched or shrunk. Request details about stains, holes, pilling, fading, missing buttons, and broken closures. 

For shoes, ask for the insole measurement and photos of the soles and heels. For jewelry and bags, confirm the materials, measurements, working clasps or zippers, and whether all pieces shown are included. 

What Should You Ask When Buying Electronics or Appliances? 

Ask whether the item currently works, when it was last tested, and which parts are included. 

Questions to ask include: 

• Does it power on and perform its main function? 

• Are any buttons, ports, or settings not working? 

• Does the battery hold a charge? 

• Are the charger, remote, cords, and other necessary parts included? 

• Has it been repaired? 

• Can you send a current video showing it working? 

For a larger appliance, request the model number so you can confirm its dimensions and requirements. Ask whether you can test the item before completing the purchase. 

What Should You Ask When Buying a Used Vehicle? 

Ask about the vehicle’s mileage, title, ownership, accident history, current problems, repairs, and maintenance. 

Important questions include: 

• Why are you selling it? 

• How many miles are on it? 

• Is the title in your name, and what is its status? 

• Can you provide the VIN? 

• Has it been involved in an accident? 

• Are there mechanical or electrical problems? 

• Are any warning lights on? 

• What maintenance or repairs have been completed recently? 

• Are service records available? 

• Can I test-drive it and have it inspected by an independent mechanic? 

Use the VIN to review available vehicle history and recall information. A history report provides background, but it doesn’t replace an inspection of the vehicle’s current condition. 

If the seller won’t provide the VIN, show proof of ownership, or allow an independent inspection, look for another vehicle. 

How Can You Verify That a Marketplace Listing Is Real? 

Request a current photo, short video, or live video call showing the actual item. 

Ask the seller to show something specific that wasn’t included in the listing, such as a drawer opening, the back of the furniture, a clothing tag, a model number, or an electronic device working. 

For a higher-priced item, a live video call allows you to request specific views in real time. Be cautious if the seller refuses every reasonable request, uses only stock-looking photos, or pressures you to pay immediately. 

What Should You Confirm About Payment and Pickup? 

Agree on the price, payment method, meeting location, and pickup details before leaving home. 

For an in-person purchase, inspect the item before paying. Be cautious if the seller unexpectedly requests a deposit, gift card, cryptocurrency, verification code, or payment through an unfamiliar link. 

For a shipped item, keep the transaction within the marketplace platform and review its current buyer-protection terms before paying. 

Before pickup, confirm: 

• The meeting address and time 

• Whether the item is upstairs 

• Whether it has been disassembled 

• Whether you need tools or moving equipment 

• Whether someone can help carry it 

Inspect and test the item before loading it. If the condition differs substantially from the listing, you can discuss the price again or decline the purchase. 

Ask Before You Make the Drive 

Reasonable questions about condition, measurements, history, and pickup help both sides understand the transaction before meeting. Five minutes of messaging can save you a wasted trip—or confirm that you’ve found something worth bringing home. 

If you’re collecting furniture for an upcoming move, renovation, or future room, Public Storage offers a range of unit sizes that can give those finds a place until you’re ready to use them.