Let’s face it:

Whether you’re a buyer or seller of used washing machines or dryers, you want one thing… To snag the ultimate deal.

But, it’s never that easy, right?

Well, don’t fret. Because, today, I’ll be your personal guide. Armed with wit, wisdom, and experience in the world of used laundry appliance deals.

What’s more?

You’ll get useful insights from Dana Prescott from Houston, TX. She is a deal hunter extraordinaire with unmatched knowledge and over 23 years of experience in the used appliance trade.

Ready?

If so, here’s everything there is to know about buying and selling used washing machines and dryers.

Buying a Used Washer or Dryer in 10 Sure Steps

One of my readers recently emailed me this…

“Hi, Jason. Greetings from one of your blog’s biggest fans. I need some advice. About six weeks ago, my washing machine died unexpectedly. And it has taken me an eternity to find a good-quality, used washing machine with a matching dryer if possible. Up until today, most of the options I’d gotten weren’t so reassuring.

Anyway, I’ve stumbled upon a promising deal on the Facebook marketplace. It’s a Samsung washer and dryer set listed for $620 and labeled as Used-Good. I really really want to buy it because I’m getting a little desperate here 😔. But, I don’t want my emotions to cloud my judgment. So, what should I do to vet this deal and get the best out of it?…” Kurtis McCall (Reno, NV)

Here goes:

According to Dana…

“During the trade of a used appliance, the buyer often carries most of the risks. (Why?) Because most sellers operate on a goods-once-sold-cannot-be-returned policy.”

Therefore:

Once you buy the appliance, the seller isn’t obligated to take it back for whatever reason. That is unless they’re willing or you can prove that they knew about a defect before selling to you.

Hmmh…?

Tricky, right?

Without due diligence, you risk buying a worthless, space-consuming appliance. To avoid this, here’s a proven, step-by-step washer/dryer buying procedure to follow…

Step 1: Start By Knowing What You Are Looking For

I always say this:

Avoid shooting in the dark when purchasing an appliance – both new and used. Arguably, this is one way to steer clear of disappointments or dissatisfaction in the future.

Now:

According to Consumer Reports, choosing the best laundry washer for your needs requires several considerations.

For example, available space, appliance size, capacity, efficiency, and features/functions. For dryers, drying speed is also key.

So:

I asked Dana – Why is this an important aspect of the preparation phase?

Her reply, “Well, for starters, this makes it easy to narrow down your search when exploring multiple offers.”

“What’s more, having a checklist of features and specs eliminates any chances of you forgetting something in the process.”

Next:

Step 2: Do Some Market Research

“Like most transactions, landing a good deal requires a lot of preparation. That means doing research on all available brands to check for reliability, known lifespans, common issues, and more,” says Dana.

Moreover:

Research helps to determine the fair market price of used laundry appliances near you; based on their brand, model, and age.

According to Dana:

“Prior research allows you to becomean ‘expert’ on the intricacies of various washer and dryer models. Thus, arming you with the knowledge and confidence to make savvy purchase decisions…”

“… Without running the risk of buying a dud.“

With regards to the Brand:

It’s prudent to consider companies that have the best reliability rating and manufacture long-lasting appliances. 

That said:

Some of the best brands include Electrolux, Samsung, LG, Whirlpool, Kenmore, Speed Queen, Maytag, Bosch, and GE.

Side Note:

Research doesn’t stop here. It is continuous and spans the entire buying (and selling) process.

Step 3: Prepare a Budget

To quote Benjamin Franklin – “Failing to plan is planning to fail.”

Drawing similarities to this wise quote, you must have a budget when shopping for a second-hand washer/dryer.

Why?

Because knowing what you can afford helps to discourage emotional/desperate decisions and overspending.

Dana says, “Some buyers often spend more on used appliances because of failing to budget or not considering the possibility of surprise expenses.”

She adds:

“A good budget covers not only the appliance’s cost but also has provisions for unexpected expenses like repairs, replacement parts, and so on.”

However, these extra costs can be factored in during price negotiations.

Now, consider this example…

Betty has a $450 budget. She finds a $300 listing for a Whirlpool washing machine that has a dead or malfunctioning drive motor.

It’s a great deal, right?

No, it’s not.

Because Whirlpool washing machine drive motors cost around ~$300 on average.

So, even if she manages to negotiate a lower price for the appliance, the cost plus repairs might go beyond her budget.

And that’s assuming she does a DIY fix. Hiring a pro to replace this part will add an extra $100 – $300 to her overall cost.

For better understanding, here are some average washer repair costs in the USA today:

Affected Part	Average Part Cost (Range)	Average Labor Cost (Range)
Door seal	$10 – $30	$70 – $100
Motor brushes	$10 – $20	$70 – $130
*Drive Motor	$100 – $450	$100 – $300
Pump	$35 – $60	$100 – $150
Drum	$150 – $500	$100 – $300
Circuit board	$180 – $400	$100 – $250

The point?

Even if the asking price is lower, having a budget allows Betty (and other buyers) to account for surprise expenses. Thus, making it easier to tell if the purchase is worth it.

Next:

Step 4: Explore the Best Places to Buy (or Sell) Used Washing Machines and Dryers

a) Online Marketplaces

Dana explains:

“Nowadays, the internet has some of the best places to find awesome deals on used washers and dryers – without much effort.”

For example, Craigslist, eBay, Facebook Marketplace, Nextdoor, and local buy/sell Whatsapp groups.

And:

Speaking from experience, these marketplaces are easy and convenient to navigate and use. Not to mention, they are accessible from anywhere and at any time.

Is that all?

Well, not exactly. You can also find a wide array of listings on used appliances near you or from other parts of the country. 

And even better…

“You don’t have to browse all listed appliances to find your ideal washer. Why? Because of the ‘Search’ feature.”Dana adds.

This feature allows you to narrow your search using keywords, appliance condition, location, and specifications.

Lastly:

Another advantage of buying online is that each listing often has images for a quick preview of the appliance. And you can always request for more.

Convenient, right?

b) Word of Mouth/Local Community Networks/Local Classifieds

You’ve probably heard of neighborhood groups. Heck! You might be in one.

Well:

You can use these groups, community centers, or social forums to communicate your desire to buy (or sell) a washing machine or dryer.

According to Dana…

“Word of mouth can be a powerful tool. Someone within your community might be selling exactly what you want or knows someone who is.”

“But if it’s not really your style, consider advertising in your local classifieds.“

c) Thrift Stores & Appliance Retailers

Yes, some appliance retailers have sections dedicated to second-hand or refurbished appliances.

Unfortunately:

Compared to searching online, this option offers a limited selection. But it’s worth checking if any quality, used washing machines are available.

Step 5: Understand Marketplace Lingo. What is “Like New”, “Good”, or “Fair” Condition?

Now:

When browsing online marketplaces, you’ll definitely encounter some abbreviations or terms that describe the condition of the product.

“Knowing what these terms mean can help you make informed decisions and avoid unpleasant surprises,” says Dana.

That said:

Here are a few common examples…

Condition	Meaning
New	The item is brand new, never used, and undamaged. This washing machine or dryer will ideally be in its original package.
Used (Like New) Or EUC (Excellent Used Condition)	The appliance is in superb condition but has previously been used. It has no signs of wear or defect. Usually, these washers/dryers are recent purchases that may not have met the buyer’s expectations.
Used (Good) Or GUC (Good Used Condition)	The washing machine has minor signs of wear or has been in use for a while. However, it is still fully operational and works as intended
Used (Fair)	Here, you should expect some signs of wear and tear or minor defects. However, the appliance is still functional.
Refurbished	The washer has gone through a refurbishing process. This involves inspecting the product, replacing any parts that don’t work, cleaning it, and repackaging.
OBO (Or Best Offer) Or ONO (Or Nearest Offer)	This means the price isn’t fixed. The seller is willing to negotiate and accept lower offers.

And the list goes on.

Obviously, there may be more examples of marketplace lingo depending on the platform and the product category.

With that in mind:

Do not hesitate to ask in the comments section below for clarification. Or you can request the seller to elaborate.

Moving on…

Step 6: Ask a Few Questions When Exploring Potential Used Washer/Dryer Listings in Online Marketplaces

Evidently:

The biggest perk about shopping online for used appliances is that it saves you time, money, and effort… By allowing you to assess the item and ask questions before agreeing to a physical meeting.

Dana explains…

“Before initiating a conversation with the seller, start by carefully reading through the Ad description. That way you’ll know what questions you should ask to fill informational gaps in the Ad description.”

In addition, I recommend closely inspecting the images provided.

Why?

Because you might pick up a thing or two not mentioned in the description. Your goal, here, is to have as much information as possible before talking to the seller.

Now:

Here’s what Dana recommends asking a seller on an online marketplace like Facebook:

Question	Reason
1. “Hi, I’m Interested In Buying Your -brandName- Washer/Dryer. Is It Still Available?”	Some sellers often forget to take down or mark an Ad as ‘Sold’ after selling it. So, it’s important to confirm that it’s still on the market.
2. “What is the Brand and Model of the Washer?”	In most cases, this information will be in the Ad description. However, if it’s not clear or complete, you should ask for clarification. This info is vital when researching the reliability and efficiency of the appliance. Plus, any common issues you should expect.
3. “How Old is the Washer?”	This allows you to gauge its potential lifespan and consider the wear and tear it might have experienced.
4. “Has It Undergone Any Repairs or Maintenance?”	Aside from giving you information about the washer/dryer’s maintenance history, this also allows you to gauge its reliability.
5. “Is there Anything Wrong with the Appliance?”	It is important to ask this if the seller provides scanty details in the Ad description; here’s an FB Marketplace example.
6. “Is that Your Best Offer?” or “Is the Price Negotiable?”	A deal is always great if you pay less for a good quality appliance. So, don’t be afraid to ask if you can bargain, haggle, or negotiate. However, I advise against setting the price over text. Usually, it’s best to agree on this after you’ve physically inspected the item and made sure everything is working as promised.
7. “What Are Your Preferred Payment and Meeting Methods?”	Lastly, confirm the seller’s preferred payment method and discuss a safe meeting location for both parties.

Other important but optional questions to ask:

• “Can You Provide More Pictures of the Washer?” – It’s important if the images provided aren’t clear or do not capture all the important angles and parts.
• “Are All the Essential Accessories Included?” – For budgeting purposes, it’s prudent to know whether all essential accessories come with the washer. For example, hoses, power cords, and user manuals.
• “Why are You Selling the Washer?” – You can also inquire about their reason for selling. That way you can tell if there are any potential concerns or issues with the appliance.

Now:

Before rushing to close a deal, here’s how to avoid being scammed on Facebook, Craigslist, and similar seller sites…

Step 7: Be Mindful of RED FLAGS. How to Quickly Identify an Online Marketplace Scam

Get this:

In any online marketplace, you are bound to come across one or more scammers.

And don’t get me wrong, most sellers are genuine. But there are a few exceptions you need to steer clear of.

How?

For starters, I advise familiarizing yourself with marketplace guidelines. Thereafter, be on the lookout for warning signs and red flags when browsing through offers.

So:

I asked Dana – How can I tell that a seller isn’t genuine and possibly running a scam?

She explains, “Start by looking for anything shady on the seller’s online profile and Ad listing. Despite evolving and improving their craft over time, modern-day scammers still slip up occasionally…”

“… You just have to be keen enough to notice.”

With that in mind:

Dana advises you look out for these warning signs:

• The seller showing lack of transparency, being unresponsive and evasive
• They’ve used generic product photos instead of real images of the appliance
• They’re unable to provide a repair and maintenance history for the appliance
• Their account being relatively new with very few or no friends/photos/posts
• Having random or stock photos as their profile picture
• Insisting that you communicate off the platform
• Numerous spelling and grammatical errors in the Ad title and description
• Very scanty, misleading, or unverifiable details on their page or having no ratings or reviews
• Willing to go very low on the price or giving you offers that seem too good to be true
• Seller asking for a deposit or the full payment upfront; before you’ve had a chance to see and inspect the appliance (very common in most scams)
• The seller keeps making last-minute change of plans or is refusing to meet in public
• Or they are pressuring you to decide quickly (creating a sense of urgency)

Pro tip:

The deeper you research, the more likely you are to find other types of Marketplace scams and their indicators.

For example, sellers asking for gift card payments or posting the same advert in different areas.

Step 8: Prioritize Safety When Setting Up a Meeting Time and Location (for both Buyers and Sellers)

Yes. It’s rare to come across criminals posing as buyers or sellers but it happens.

Now:

If I haven’t said it before, your safety must be of utmost importance.

Dana adds, “If you ever feel uneasy or suspicious about a seller or the meeting arrangements, it’s okay to cancel or reschedule. There will be other opportunities down the road.”

That said, here are a some Simply Swider safety tips:

• Ensure all communication is done on the platform’s messaging service. For instance, if you are shopping on FB marketplace, use FB Messenger. This ensures there’s a record of your conversation for referencing – if the need ever arises.
• Insist on meeting in a Public and Well-Lit Location. This could be in a busy parking lot, outside a police station, or a community shopping center.
• Meet during the day. Daytime meetings not only offer better visibility but also reduce the risks associated with nighttime transactions.
• If possible, bring a companion. Doing so provides an added layer of security and comfort. But ensure you notify the seller/buyer beforehand so as to avoid making them feel uncomfortable.
• Make sure you inform someone close to you about the deal. This includes disclosing the details of your meeting; i.e. the time, location, and the seller’s contact information. It’s a prudent way of preparing for any unexpected situations.
• Don’t do any transactions at home. Unless you feel very confident about their credibility, inviting a stranger to your home may compromise your safety or that of other occupants.
• Use cash or secure online payment methods. After carefully inspecting the appliance, you can pay for it in cash or using other payment channels like PayPal or Venmo. Personally, I’d recommend PayPal/Venmo over cash because the payment serves as a record that the transaction took place. Also, avoid making advance payments or using unfamiliar payment apps.
• Lastly, TRUST YOUR INSTINCTS. If anything feels off or you’re uncomfortable during the meeting, trust your instincts and be ready to walk away from the deal.

Got it?

Step 9: Do a Pre-Purchase Inspection Before Paying for the Appliance

If you ask any expert, they will tell you this:

Always do a physical inspection of a used appliance before paying for it. Many people often assume that since a washing machine has a pristine exterior there’s no way it might be faulty.

But:

What if it has a damaged agitator? Or its drive motor is failing. Even worse, the washing machine’s control board is dead.

Hmmm?

Dana emphasizes, “Due diligence is critical when doing a physical pre-purchase inspection. Don’t be in a rush to pay for the item until you’re 100% sure it works or is as described by the seller and Ad description.”

That said:

In case you’re buying a washing machine, here’s what you need to check…

Part	What to Check
Exterior	Look out for signs of damage, past repairs, dents, and overall wear. The state of the exterior coupled with the age of the appliance can give you a rough idea of how frequently it’s been used (either often or rarely).
Tub/Drum	Check the tub for signs of rust or damage in the inner walls and on the base.
Agitator	Is it spinning freely? If not, it might be stuck or damaged.
Power Cord and Plug	Also, ensure the power cord and plug are in good and safe working condition.
Control Panel/Console	Test each button/switch on the control panel to ensure it works as intended. If possible, the seller can provide the original user manual that has information on how to run the washer’s diagnostic mode. Or they can guide you like in this Whirlpool washer video example.
Water Inlet and Drainage System	Here, I’m talking about the inlet valve, drain pump, and hose. Ensure that the appliance fills up without an issue during a wash cycle and drains flawlessly. Also, check for any leaks – it could indicate worn-out seals and grommets.
Lid Seals and Latch	If there’s a leak from the lid (on Front Facing washers), it could mean that the seals are worn out. More so, test the lid’s latch mechanism to ensure it functions correctly and securely locks during operation
Soap/Detergent Dispensers	Check to see if the dispensers hold and dispense as intended. Look for gunk and scale buildup that may affect the effective opening/closing of the dispenser doors.
Lastly, Cycle Noises and Odors	When running the washing machine cycles, you also want to check if there are any unusual noises, violent vibrations, and strange odors. Usually, noises and vibrations are often indicators of a mechanical issue. On the other hand, a bad odor could mean that there’s mold and mildew build-up.

If you’re shopping for a Dryer, the table above guides you on checking the exterior, tub/drum, power cord/plug, control panel, door seals/latch, and unusual noises or odors.

Then, check these parts too…

Part	What to Check
Lint Trap/Filter	Examine the lint trap for any damage, buildup, or clogs. According to Whirlpool Service, a clogged lint trap can increase drying time. And, thus, cleaning it is essential for the efficient and safe operation of the dryer.
Ventilation System	Here, you want to look for blockages and to ensure that airflow is unhindered during operation.
Heating Element	Is the dryer heating up? If not, there might be a problem with the heating element (or the control panel module in some cases).

Pro tip:

Dana says, “You can also ask for documentation. With this, you’ll get insights on the age, maintenance history, and ownership of the appliance you’re buying…”

“… Plus, should you decide to resell it, you’ll have something credible to offer your future buyer.”

Lastly:

Step 10: Haggling and How to Score a Bargain

Now:

While many find it easier to bargain over text, I always advise my readers to do it face-to-face after fully inspecting the item.

Why?

The last thing you want is to negotiate a $100 price cut for a washer that may need a $300 fix after a while. An inspection allows you to take note of parts that may need repair or replacement.

Thereafter, you’ll know how much bargaining power you have.

That said:

When bargaining, Dana advises you do the following:

• Be polite and positive. This is not war, just a centuries-old tradition.
• Give a counter-offer. I recommend starting with 40% off to test how low the seller is willing to go. For example, if the appliance is selling for $200, offer $120 for it. Then give the seller a chance to come up with a counter-counter-offer.
• And this process will go on until you’re sure their final offer works for you. If not, keep bartering.
• Usually, one way to get a discount is by drawing the seller’s attention to features or defects that may not be so appealing to other buyers. For example, if the dryer isn’t very energy efficient.
• Remember to mind your body language. It’s important to project interest and a fair amount of excitement. Bear in mind, the seller will only be motivated to haggle if they’re hopeful of making a sale.
• Also, if the appliance has an issue, you should step aside and work out how much it will cost to fix. Then, once you have that info, you can say something like, “I’ll take it for $$$.” and briefly point out why you need the price deduction (i.e. to cover the repair cost).

Take note:

Not all sellers will budge on the price.

So, bargaining doesn’t always end in a price cut. However, there are other ways for buyers to get more out of a deal; usually in the form of after-sale services.

Instead of reducing the price…

The seller can offer to ship the appliance for you, do a free installation, or even help repair/replace a part for free.

In such a case, the buyer still wins.

Awesome, right?

Anyway:

That’s everything you need to know about buying a used washing machine and dryer in 2023. However, what if the roles were reversed?

Hmm…?

What if you are the seller? Well, here’s your ultimate cheat-sheet.  

Selling a Used Washer or Dryer in 9 Easy Steps: How to Retain Most of Your Appliance’s Value

If you ask me:

Selling a used washing machine is probably less complicated than buying. However, you’ll still need to prepare, do research, advertise, and entertain multiple offers.

That said:

Here are a nine sure steps to take for a successful, used washer/dryer sale.

Step 1: Thorough Clean the Washer or Dryer

According to Dana:

“It’s easier to sell an item that looks good, clean, and well-maintained. So, you can’t just take pictures of your washer, advertise, and hope for the best. It won’t work. At best, you’ll get a ton of lowball offers.”

Most importantly, preparation allows you to notice and address any issues or faults that may devalue your appliance.

That said:

It’s hard to imagine a washing machine getting dirty on the inside, right? After all, it’s always in contact with water and detergent.

Well, they do get filthy and smelly after some time.

And that’s why it’s important to do deep cleaning every once in a while. But, most importantly, right before listing the appliance for sale.

That said:

“For this bit, you need to thoroughly clean both the interior and the exterior of the washer/dryer. Remove any lint, dirt, or soap residue from the drum, detergent drawer, and door seals.“ Says Dana.

Also:

Remember to check for mold and mildew growth and wipe down the exterior to make it look presentable.

Step 2: Inspect the Appliance and Refurbish Where Necessary

Experts recommend inspecting the appliance for faults, worn-out parts, signs of wear, and cosmetic damages once you are done cleaning.

Why?

“These are basically all the factors that may reduce your washer’s value or appeal to potential buyers,” according to Dana.

So, if you find any, consider fixing them.

Pro Tip:

If you want to lower the cost of refurbishing, go for used spare parts. You can find these online or from a local scrap yard.

Now, bear in mind that “Selling a flawed appliance will give the buyer more bargaining power. So, if you can inexpensively fix an issue, do it.” Dana adds.

More so:

Don’t neglect any minor or easily fixable issues on the exterior.

Here, I mean replacing faulty knobs, buttons, power cords/plugs, or hoses. Then, fix any leaks and rectify minor cosmetic damages (e.g. paint scratches and dents).

Step 3: Understand Your Potential Buyers and What They Are Looking For

So, I asked Dana…

Before listing an appliance, should a seller do research on potential buyers; and, if so, why?

Her response:

“Definitely. Like I’ve said before, information is critical in any transaction. You must understand your target group’s needs, what they are looking for, and how you stand to benefit…”

“Therefore, the more the seller knows about their potential buyers, the easier it will be to tailor an Ad/listing with better chances of success.“

With that in mind:

When disposing a used washing machine, here are the four types of buyers to expect.

Buyer Type	What They’re Looking For	Where They Buy From	Pros	Cons
Individual Buyers	A reliable, good-quality, and efficient appliance that can last a couple more years despite being used.	* Online marketplaces * Second hand appliance stores * Individual sellers * ReStores	– Highest selling price potential – Personal interaction – No middlemen – Faster, in some cases – They come to you	– More likely to scam you – Safety concerns – May require advertising
Appliance Resellers	A cheap appliance that’s in good condition and has a decent resale value.		– Reliable – Immediate sale – Fast transaction – Not so picky – No need to advertise – Safe and secure	– Limited or no negotiation – Lower selling price – You have to go to them
Scrap Yards	Any appliance. Ideally, something that can be stripped for parts.	* Individual sellers * Other scrap yards	– Quick and easy disposal – Environmentally friendly due to parts reuse – Buys appliances As-Is – No need to advertise – Immediate payment – Best option for dead or irreparable washers	– Will pay very little – Lost value (i.e. some working parts in the appliance might be worth more than what they pay for it) – You’ll need to transport the item to them
Donation Centers (ReStores)	A working appliance that needs a new home and the owner is willing to donate it for free.	* Individuals	– Easy disposal – For a good cause – Will take the appliance As-Is – Can be written off as a Tax Deduction, according to WikiHow – Reputation builder	– You won’t make any money from this transaction – Limited availability

Step 4: Determine the Ideal Selling Price for Your Washer or Dryer

So:

The main question here is – How much should I sell my washing machine for?

Well, there are two ways to approach this.

a) By Comparing Prices

“For this, all you have to do is check online marketplaces for similar appliances that are around the same age as yours. Then settle on a price that’s slightly above or below the average,” Dana explains.

On the plus side:

This method is simple and easy to execute.

However, it does have drawbacks. For example, you don’t know how the other sellers came up with their prices. Moreover, it may not factor in recent part repairs/replacement costs.

Hence, there’s a possibility of incurring losses.

b) Using a Value Depreciation Formula

The recommended formula is:

Estimated Value = Annual Value Depreciation (Original Price / Known Lifespan) * Remaining Years (Known Lifespan – Current Age)

For example:

Mark wants to sell his 15-year-old Speed Queen TR7 that he bought for $1600. According to the New York Times Wirecutter, these appliances can last up to 25 years.

So, here’s how to calculate his washer’s ideal selling price…

Estimated Value = ($1600 / 25) * (25 – 15)

= $64 * 10

= $640

That said:

Here’s a list of everage lifetimes for different brands…

Washing Machine Brand	Average Price	Average Lifetime
Samsung	$949	13 years
LG	$1,349	14 years
Whirlpool	$1,000	14 years
Kenmore	$1,100	14 years
Speed Queen	$1,029	25 years
Maytag	$899	10 years
Bosch	$1,099	13 years
GE	$1,249	11 years
Electrolux	$1,349	11 years
Frigidaire	$899	10 years

That said:

If Mark had incurred recent repair/maintenance costs, it’s important to factor them into the final price. This allows him to recover some of those expenses.

How?

Assuming he replaced the Door Seal ($60) and Drive Belt ($20), his ideal selling price would be…

Selling Price = Estimated Value + Total Repair Costs

=$640 + $80

= $720

Side Notes:

While these price adjustments might help you recoup repair costs, you still need to ensure that your listing price is not too high compared to the market average.

Otherwise, you risk scaring away genuine buyers.

Moving on…

Step 5: Decide on Where to Sell Your Used Washing Machine or Dryer

So, I’ve already covered most of this in Step 4 of the Buying Process.

However:

From a seller’s perspective, here’s how these options differ…

Platform/Option	Pros	Cons
Online Marketplaces (Facebook, Ebay, Craigslist, Nextdoor, and Local Buy/Sell Groups)	– Large number of potential buyers – Set your own price and negotiate with buyers – Sell from the comfort of your home – High selling price possibility – Use photos and descriptions to showcase your washing machine – Choose from different platforms to suit your preference	– Numerous scams – Pay fees to some platforms (e.g., eBay) – Arrange delivery or pickup with buyers
Thrift Stores/Appliance Resellers	– Allow you to get rid of your washing machine quickly and easily – You’ll be supporting a good cause or a local business – Avoid hassle and risk of dealing with strangers and scammers – Immediate payment in cash or store credit – Find other appliances or items you may need in case you want to upgrade or trade in	– Lower price – Limited options – Transport your washing machine to the store or reseller – Very little room for price negotiation
Word of Mouth/Local Classifieds	– Sell to someone you know or trust – Save money on advertising and fees – Negotiate the price and terms easily – Build rapport/relationship with the buyer – Receive referrals and recommendations from the buyer	– Smaller pool of buyers – Might take longer to sell – Risk damaging your relationship with the buyer if something goes wrong

Step 6: Create a Compelling Online Marketplace Listing/Local Classifieds Ad

As Dana explains:

“An Ad listing forms the backbone of most sales nowadays. Even if your target group is your local community, the Ad you place on the classifieds must be compelling.”

So, where does one start?

a) “I’d start by crafting a catchy headline; summarizing the main selling points of your washing machine.” says Dana.

For instance, ‘Like-New Samsung Washing Machine with Steam Cycle – $500 (OBO)’

b) Use clear and high-quality photos of your washer from different angles. You need to highlight any features, accessories, or damages that are relevant to the buyer.

Quick tips? Check this video out.

Pro tip:

You can also include a short but recent video recording of the appliance in action. It acts as proof that the washer or dryer works as described.

c) Be detailed, honest, and transparent.

Moreover, use clear and simple language that is not only easy to read but also understand. Avoid having a lot of jargon, slang, and abbreviations in your description; it might confuse some buyers.

That said:

Your Ad description must cover the most important bits of information including the:

• Brand, model, and condition
• Features and specifications
• Usage history and reason for selling
• Price and payment method
• Delivery or pickup arrangements
• Contact information and availability

In addition, Dana says…

“Make sure you mention any recent repairs and maintenance in your listing. Stating the work that was done and the costs incurred will show potential buyers the value they are getting,”

Still, buyers may try to negotiate for a lower price.

Therefore, you should be open to reasonable offers. Just ensure the final price doesn’t leave you counting significant losses on your repair expenses.

d) To optimize reach and exposure, use common keywords and phrases that potential buyers might use to search for your washing machine type.

For example:

Speed Queen front load washing machine… Energy efficient washer… Steam cycle washing machine…

e) Proofread and edit your listing before posting it. Spelling, grammar, and punctuation errors tend to raise a lot of questions.

Step 7: Advertise. Outreach Tips for Sellers

So, how do sellers benefit from advertising?

“In two ways. One, it allows one to cast a wider net and reach more buyers. Two, targeted Ads often increase the chances of getting a genuine offer within a short period.” says Dana.

With that in mind:

You can achieve this by paying for Onlne Ad Services, newspaper ads, or printing and distributing flyers and posters.

The only downside is that the money spent on Ads reduces your profit margin.

On the plus side:

There are cost-free methods to increase outreach. As Dana explains, you can…

• Harness the power of social media sharing
• Encourage and incentivize your friends, family, and colleagues to share your listing on their socials too
• Initiate Word-of-Mouth outreach i.e. Telling a friend to tell a friend
• Or you can optimize you Ad description for Search Engines

Warning:

Even sellers get scammed.

According to the Better Business Bureau, there are scammers who contact sellers posing as interested buyers immediately after a listing goes live.

To spot such a scam, look for these indicators:

• The buyers will show a lot of interest in the appliance; insisting on paying immediately without even physically inspecting it
• In other cases, they’ll insist on getting your phone number so that they can ‘verify you.’ And more…

Therefore, just like buyers, you need to be mindful of red flags. You can read more about this in Step 7 of the Buying Process.

Step 8. Entertaining Offers from Various Buyers

Dana says, “When you start getting offers from prospective buyers, it’s always important to be prompt, cordial, and professional.”

Get this:

Most buyers will contact you with inquiries about your washing machine or dryer.

Therefore, you need to have honest and clear answers ready. This not only builds trust but also helps to naturally expedite the buyer’s decision-making.

And that’s not all…

You can also offer to provide more information and photos if needed.

This shows the buyers that you’re confident about the condition of your appliance and not trying to hide anything.

According to Dana:

“One thing you mustn’t do is leave a buyer hanging after initial contact. Being unresponsive might indicate a lack of seriousness about the sale. When that happens, most buyers tend to lose interest fast.”

Lastly, be flexible on pricing.

Note, I don’t recommend price negotiations over text; that is, before the buyer has had a chance to physically inspect the appliance.

However, it’s important to let them know you are open to the idea.

Step 9: Drop Off and After Sale Services

Now:

When you agree to a physical meet, it’s important to prioritize your well-being. Therefore, use the safety tips above to make sure you don’t get yourself into a bind.

Anyway, on price negotiations…

First, let buyer check the appliace and give feedback before haggling begins.

Thereafter, if you get an offer that’s lower than your asking price, you can either accept it, reject it, or make a counteroffer.

Dana says…

“Try to be reasonable, but don’t sell yourself short. If the buyer’s final offer doesn’t work for you, cancel the trade and wait for the next offer.”

She adds, “If you can’t agree on a discount, try to sweeten the deal by offering incentives. For example, you can give a warranty or offer after-sale-services like free delivery or installation.”

Lastly:

Use a secure payment method (cash or Venmo/Paypal) and ensure you confirm payment before handing over the appliance.

Before I wrap up…

Here are a few seller protection tips for you:

• Use a payment method (Paypal/Venmo) that offers a receipt or a bill of sale that confirms the transaction.
• You can have the buyer sign a release of liability form. It states that you’re not responsible for any damages/defects that may occur after the sale
• Finally, do a follow-up after a few days to thank the buyer for their purchase and ask for feedback or a review.

To Wrap This Up…

One thing is clear:

Buying and selling used washing machines and dryers isn’t exactly rocket science. But, each process requires a great deal of research, patience, and due diligence.

With this cheat sheet, you have all the tips, tricks, and secrets traders need to know to successfully execute a purchase or sale in 2023.

So, make sure you learn as much as possible from it.

That said:

Big thanks to Dana for her invaluable contribution. And as always, don’t hesitate to ask questions or contribute your thoughts in the comments.

What’s Next:

Question – Who buys broken washing machines near me?

If you’re wondering the same, I’ve got you covered. I’ll do a post on everything you need to know about recycling your old or dead washing machine and dryer in the coming days.