How to flip furniture in 7 easy steps

Flipping furniture sounds hard, but the steps are simple. You find a good piece, fix it up, take bright photos, and sell it for more. This guide walks you through the process from start to finish in plain language.

New to this topic? You can also read the furniture flipping guide for the big picture, then come back here for the step-by-step.

Step 1 – Pick the right first piece

Your first flip should be easy to move, easy to fix, and easy to sell. Start small. Think:

• Nightstands (especially matching pairs).
• Simple dressers with working drawers.
• Coffee tables and bookshelves in solid wood.

Avoid complex pieces at the beginning:

• Huge armoires and entertainment centers.
• Curvy, carved pieces that need detailed sanding.
• Items with water damage, mold, or strong smells.

For a list of safe, high-ROI choices, open best furniture to flip for profit.

Step 2 – Check the numbers before you buy

Before you put a piece in your car, pause and do quick math. A flip only makes sense if the numbers work.

Simple formula: profit = selling price – (buy price + supplies + labor value + delivery + fees).

Many flippers aim for 40–60% profit after every cost. If your numbers do not reach that range, it is okay to walk away and wait for a better deal.

• Write down the asking price.
• Estimate paint, hardware, and other supplies.
• Decide how much your time is worth per hour.
• Add delivery or truck costs if you need them.
• Remember platform or payment fees.

To test your numbers and see margin percent, use the calculator in flipping furniture for profit.

Step 3 – Prep your work space

You do not need a fancy shop, but you do need a safe, dry spot to work.

• Garage, carport, patio, or a corner of a room with a drop cloth.
• Good airflow if you sand or paint.
• Enough space to walk around the piece.

Basic setup:

• Drop cloth or cardboard under the piece.
• Small table or shelf for tools and supplies.
• Extension cord if you use a sander.
• Mask, safety glasses, and gloves when needed.

Step 4 – Clean and fix the piece

Cleaning and small repairs do most of the work. Take your time here; it affects your final price.

Clean

• Vacuum drawers and corners.
• Wipe down all surfaces with a mild cleaner or degreaser.
• Let everything dry fully before you sand or paint.

Repair

• Tighten screws and bolts.
• Glue loose joints and clamp them until dry.
• Fill dents and chips with wood filler; sand smooth once it cures.
• Check drawers: they should slide in and out without sticking.

Step 5 – Paint or refinish

Now comes the fun part. Keep finishes simple and classic. You want your piece to fit in many styles of homes.

If you paint

• Lightly sand glossy surfaces so the paint grips.
• Use primer on dark or shiny finishes.
• Choose neutral or trending colors: white, black, warm gray, deep green, or navy.
• Use thin coats and let each coat dry fully.
• Add a clear topcoat on high-touch areas like tabletops.

If you stain or keep wood

• Sand with the grain, starting with medium grit and finishing with fine grit.
• Wipe away dust before you stain.
• Test stain color on the back or bottom first.
• Seal with a clear finish for protection.

Small upgrades go a long way: new knobs, pulls, or legs can make a thrift-store piece look high-end.

Step 6 – Take photos buyers love

Good photos can raise your price and cut your selling time. You do not need a pro camera; a phone works fine.

• Shoot in daylight near a window or open garage.
• Clear away clutter; keep backgrounds simple.
• Take wide shots from different angles.
• Add close-ups of hardware, wood grain, and any flaws.
• Show the piece in use if you can (styled with a plant or lamp).

Step 7 – List, sell, and handle buyers

With your piece ready and photos done, it is time to list and sell.

Write a simple, clear listing

• Title: include piece type, style, and color (for example, “Solid wood mid-century dresser, walnut”).
• Details: size, material, color, how you updated it.
• Condition: be honest; mention small flaws and show them in photos.
• Price: use your profit math and check similar sold listings in your area.

Choose where to list

Many flippers start with local online marketplaces and consignment-style platforms. To compare options, read where to sell flipped furniture.

Stay safe and sane with buyers

• Meet in well-lit, public spots when possible or have pickups at times you feel safe.
• Have someone with you for big items.
• Use simple rules: deposit to hold, clear pickup window, and clear payment method.

Over time, you will learn which buyers and channels feel best and pay the most. Keep notes and repeat what works.

FAQ

How long does a basic flip take?

A simple dresser or table flip can take one weekend: one day for cleaning and repairs, one day for paint or finish and photos. Bigger or more detailed pieces take longer.

How much money should I put into my first flip?

Many beginners keep total costs (buy + supplies + delivery) under $100 on early projects. This keeps risk low while you learn.

Do I need a truck to flip furniture?

No. You can start with items that fit in a car or small SUV. For larger pieces, you can rent a small truck for a day or partner with someone who has one.

What if my first flip does not sell fast?

Do not panic. Update your photos, adjust the price a little, and try a second selling channel. Use the slow flip as a lesson in what to buy next time.

How do I turn this into a real business?

Once you are flipping regularly, read how to start a furniture flipping business for tips on legal setup, budgeting, and marketing.

Next steps

• Pick one simple piece from best furniture to flip for profit and use this guide as your checklist.
• Plug your numbers into the calculator in flipping furniture for profit before you buy.
• Learn more ways to find good stock in where to find furniture to flip.
• See which selling channel fits you best with where to sell flipped furniture.
• When you are ready for steady deal flow, claim a spot in the used furniture buyers directory.
• Curious what else we are building for flippers and buyers? Visit the Asherfield home page.