How to Check If a Marketplace Item Is Overpriced

Published on May 9, 2025 by SureBuy.io Team

When you're shopping secondhand, it’s not always easy to tell if a listing is a good deal or a total ripoff. Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, OfferUp — they all let sellers name their price, even if it’s way too high. So how can you tell if a marketplace item is overpriced before you buy?

Here are five tips to help you avoid overpaying and spot inflated listings early.

1. Compare Prices Across Platforms

Search for the same item on multiple resale platforms. Look at:

• Facebook Marketplace
• Craigslist
• OfferUp
• eBay (check the "Sold" filter for real sale prices)

Look at items with similar condition and model numbers. Listings that have been up for weeks with no takers are usually overpriced — even if the photos look good.

2. Use SureBuy.io for a Fast Price Check

SureBuy.io helps you figure out if a listing is fairly priced in seconds. Just paste the item’s title, description, and price into the scan tool and we’ll instantly compare it to similar listings. If it’s overpriced, we’ll flag it — and give you data to back it up.

It’s a simple way to avoid guessing and shop smarter.

3. Watch Out for “Near Retail” Pricing Tricks

Sellers love to say things like “Paid $400, asking $350” — even when the item is used or outdated. That’s not a deal.

Fair resale pricing usually reflects:

• Condition (new, used, refurbished, broken)
• Age of the item
• Missing parts or packaging
• Brand demand and local availability

If it’s priced like new but isn’t, it’s probably a bad deal.

4. Look for Keyword Clues in the Description

Descriptions like these often signal inflated pricing:

• “Rare” or “vintage” (without proof)
• “Won’t last long!” (but it’s been listed for weeks)
• “Firm on price” (but way above market value)

Be skeptical. Sellers use these terms to create urgency or justify high prices — not because the item is actually worth more.

5. Know When to Negotiate

Some listings leave room to negotiate, especially if:

• The item has been listed a while
• The seller seems flexible or eager
• You have proof of lower prices elsewhere

Even if the price seems okay, a respectful offer backed by data often works. SureBuy.io gives you a price comparison summary you can even use in your message to the seller.

Before You Click “Buy” — Double Check It

Bad deals cancel out the good ones. Don’t overpay just because something looks nice at first glance.

Use SureBuy.io to scan listings and spot overpriced items, scams, and negotiation opportunities before you commit. It’s free, fast, and built for buyers who want to shop smarter.

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Also read: Is Facebook Marketplace Safe in 2025?