Writing an effective Facebook Marketplace post is key to selling your items quickly and getting the best price. With over 1 billion active users on Facebook, Marketplace provides a huge platform to connect with potential buyers in your local area. But crafting the right post takes some thought and strategy.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll go over everything you need to know to write a compelling Marketplace post that generates interest and leads to sales. We’ll cover the key information to include, formatting tips, keywords to use, and examples of great posts. Follow these best practices to take full advantage of Marketplace and maximize your selling success on Facebook.
Provide Complete Item Details
The most important part of your Marketplace post is including all the key details about the item you’re selling. You want to provide potential buyers with all the information they need to evaluate the item and decide if they’re interested.
Here are the key item details to include:
Title
The title of your post will be the first thing buyers see when browsing Marketplace. Make sure your title accurately describes the item. Include the brand name, model, size, color, or other identifying details. You want the title to grab attention so interested buyers will click on your post to learn more.
Example title: “Nintendo Switch 32GB Console, Red/Blue Joycons”
Description
Use the description field to provide more details about the condition, features, and specifics of the item. Mention notable features, any defects, dimensions, and anything else relevant to the item. Providing honest and thorough details builds trust with buyers.
Price
State the asking price clearly in the post. You can negotiate the price later through messages, but the listed price will give buyers an idea of the expected range. Price items competitively based on Marketplace averages for similar items.
Location
Your location will automatically be included with your post. Specifying the city/neighborhood helps local buyers find and evaluate items.
Images
Include several high-quality images that showcase the item from different angles. Images are critical for showing condition and details. Take photos in good lighting against a clean background. Add an image of any defects so there are no surprises.
Category
Select the most relevant product category when listing your item. Properly categorizing your post will help interested buyers find it more easily.
Format Your Post Clearly
Proper formatting makes your Marketplace post easier to read and digest. Follow these tips:
– Organize information using paragraphs and bullet points
– Use headings and bold text to highlight important details
– Add line breaks between sections
– Use a readable font and adequate spacing
– Write short sentences and easy-to-understand language
Avoid giant blocks of text. Break up sections to improve scannability for buyers.
Highlight Key Features
What makes your item unique or valuable? Call out the most notable features that will interest potential buyers. Some examples:
– Brand name
– Special edition or rare item
– Capacity, dimensions, or other specs
– Attachments, accessories, or extras included
– Functional condition of electronics/mechanics
– Recent repairs or upgrades
– Remainder of warranty period
Emphasizing why your item is worth the price helps buyers recognize the value.
Be Honest About Any Flaws
Transparency is key when selling items online. Mention any defects, signs of wear, stains, or other flaws upfront in your post. Providing honest disclosures about condition prevents disappointed buyers and builds your credibility.
If flaws are not visible in your photos, call them out in the description. Buyers will see the issues when they come to pickup the item, so acknowledging them ahead of time shows you have nothing to hide.
Add Relevant Keywords
Incorporating keywords helps interested buyers find your Marketplace post when they search relevant terms. Include:
– Brand names (“Samsung”, “Apple”, “KitchenAid”)
– Product names (“iPhone 12”, “Nintendo Switch”)
– Features (“stainless steel”, “WiFi enabled”)
– Categories (“sofa”, “mountain bike”)
– Item condition (“mint”, “open box”)
Repeat important keywords naturally 2-3 times in your post title and description. Don’t overstuff keywords unnaturally.
Craft an Attention-Grabbing Opening
You want the opening sentences of your post to grab attention and compel buyers to keep reading. Some ways to achieve this:
– Offer a tempting deal or incentive (“Priced to sell today only!”)
– Start with a detailed specification list
– Ask an interesting question (“Looking for a reliable 4K TV for gaming?”)
– Share an eye-catching statistic (“This bed frame can support up to 1000 lbs”)
– Reference the brand and reputation (“Authentic designer Louis Vuitton purse”)
Explain Your Reason for Selling
Adding context around why you are selling the item makes your post feel more personal. It shows buyers you’re not just looking to make a quick buck. Some examples:
– Item was a gift but don’t need
– Rarely used item, so selling to declutter
– Upgraded to newer model
– Completed project so no longer need supplies
– Moved to smaller space, so downsizing
This helps connect with buyers looking for an honest purchase experience.
Provide Logistics Details
Your post should cover key logistics like:
– Pickup location (neighborhood works)
– Whether delivery is available
– Payment methods you accept
– Availability for viewing the item
– Lead time before sale can be arranged
This helps set buyer expectations upfront about how the transaction will work.
List Bundled Items
If you’re including additional items, parts, or materials with the original product, list everything that the buyer will receive. For example:
– Cables, chargers, remotes
– Games or media
– Instruction manuals
– Extra pieces or hardware
– Mounting or installation supplies
– Original packaging materials
This demonstrates the value beyond just the main product.
Share Product Knowledge
If it’s an item you used yourself, share details that only an owner would know. For electronics, mention tricks or hidden features. On vehicles, provide maintenance history. For collectibles, note manufacturing quirks. This can make buyers more confident in your knowledge of the product.
Mention Warranty or Return Policy
If the item has an active warranty or you’re willing to accept returns, highlight this to attract buyers. The protection or option to return reduces risk on their end. Just be sure to specify any conditions around warranty claims or returns.
Close with a Call to Action
End your Marketplace post by prompting interested buyers to get in touch. For example:
– “Don’t miss out, message me today!”
– “Please reach out with any questions.”
– “Pickup or delivery can be arranged.”
– “Moving soon so act fast!”
A call to action encourages serious buyers to engage instead of just passively browsing.
Proofread Before Posting
Be sure to thoroughly proofread your entire post before hitting submit. Check for:
– Typos and grammar errors
– Missing information
– Consistent formatting
– Accurate item details
Proofreading ensures quality and builds your credibility as a seller.
Best Practices for Post Length
How long should your Marketplace post be? Here are some guidelines:
– Title: 60 characters or less
– Description: 3-5 sentences or 2 short paragraphs
– Additional details as needed: Provide enough detail to accurately describe the item, its features, condition, and other relevant facts. Err on the side of more detail rather than less.
– Formatting: Break text into readable sections using line spacing and bullets
– Keywords: Incorporate 3-5 keywords naturally within the post
– Total length: Shoot for 250 words minimum for the entire post
A post with around 250+ words will provide buyers with sufficient details without being overly long. But use your best judgment – some items require more extensive descriptions and details.
Refreshing Your Post
To keep your post active and visible in Marketplace:
– Repost every 7 days if the item hasn’t sold
– Update the post if you’ve lowered the price
– Change the cover photo periodically
– Tweak wording and detail occasionally
Freshening your post will move it up in Marketplace search results and listings.
Marketplace Post Examples
Here are two example Marketplace posts (one for selling a desk, one for shoes) showcasing proper formatting, details, and call to action:
Black IKEA Desk
Selling a black IKEA MICKE desk in great condition. Perfect for a home office or student desk.
Details:
– Black particle board top with rounded corners
– Measures 35 3/8″ wide x 23 5/8″ deep x 29 1/8″ high
– Built-in drawer for storage
– Shelf included for keyboard/speaker storage
– Currently in my smoke-free home office
– Slight scuff on back right corner pictured
Asking $50 OBO. Pickup only in Springfield area. Cash payment. Available this weekend or next week for pickup.
Don’t miss this deal on a handy IKEA desk! Message me if interested.
Women’s Nike Running Shoes
Up for sale is a pair of women’s Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 36 running shoes in size 8.5. Only worn a few times so still in great condition.
Details:
– Mesh upper with Flywire cables for lightweight breathability
– Zoom Air units in heel and forefoot for responsive cushioning
– 10mm heel-to-toe drop
– Worn tread with plenty of miles left
– Currently $120+tax new, priced to sell at $80 OBO
Located downtown. Text me (555-123-4567) to arrange pickup/meetup on nights or weekends. Cash/Venmo accepted. Don’t miss this deal!
Optimizing Based on Item Category
Certain items require extra detail or have unique considerations for Marketplace listings.
Electronics
For electronics, emphasize exact model numbers, hardware specs, included accessories, and condition details like battery life, signs of use/damage, and verified functionality.
Vehicles
With vehicles, mileage and maintenance records are critical. Note engine size, fuel type, interior/exterior condition, ownership history, title status, and any mechanical issues. Include 15+ photos of the exterior and interior.
Furniture
For furniture, describe dimensions, materials, assembly status, signs of wear, and whether delivery/hauling is available. Photograph any scratches or damage. Mention if furniture can be disassembled for transport.
Collectibles
With collectibles, collectors will want to know manufacturing details, edition numbers, certification status, and preservation quality. Provide detailed close-up photos highlighting condition. Share any authentication documents.
Following Marketplace Guidelines
When creating posts, be sure to follow Facebook Marketplace’s rules and standards:
– No prohibited, illegal, or adult items
– No misleading or false information
– No price gouging
– No personally identifiable information in posts
– No referral links or external websites
– No prohibited user age restrictions
Adhering to Marketplace guidelines protects your account status and selling privileges. If in doubt, review Facebook’s Commerce Policies.
Conclusion
Writing an optimized Facebook Marketplace post improves your chances of selling your item quickly and efficiently. Provide ample details, format clearly, highlight features, disclose flaws, use keywords, and add photos. Follow best practices to attract interested buyers, build trust, and maximize your reach. With a compelling post that showcases your item’s value, you can leverage Marketplace to drive sales and earn extra cash.