Selling vintage metal kitchen cabinets can be a great way to earn some extra cash if you have some taking up space. Metal kitchen cabinets were very popular from the 1930s through the 1970s, so you are likely to find many vintage options still in good shape. Here is a guide on where and how you can sell vintage metal kitchen cabinets to get top dollar.
Introduction
Vintage metal kitchen cabinets are highly sought after by collectors, interior designers, and people looking to remodel their kitchens with a retro flair. The solid metal construction makes vintage cabinets very durable, and many people love the look of shiny chrome, cool stainless steel, or colorful retro metal cabinetry in kitchens. If you have some vintage metal cabinets you are looking to sell, there are several great options to earn some cash.
Sell Vintage Metal Kitchen Cabinets on Facebook Marketplace
One of the easiest places to sell vintage metal kitchen cabinets is Facebook Marketplace. There are many buyers actively searching for vintage items on Facebook, so you are likely to get a lot of interest by listing your cabinets there. Make sure to take high-quality pictures that show off the details and condition of your cabinets. Write an enticing description that notes the manufacturer, dimensions, color/finish, and any unique details. List the cabinets in the appropriate local for sale groups and share the listing on your own timeline to reach the most buyers.
Consign Vintage Metal Kitchen Cabinets at a Local Store
Many antique stores, consignment shops, and second-hand stores accept consignments of vintage furniture and home goods. Call the stores in your area to ask if they are interested in displaying your vintage metal cabinets for sale. They will likely take a percentage of the final sale price, but you can reach more local buyers this way versus selling online yourself. Make sure any repairs or touch-ups are made before consigning to ensure you get the best price.
Sell to Home Decor Sellers on Etsy
Etsy has many sellers who specialize in unique, vintage home decor items. Selling your metal kitchen cabinets on Etsy opens you up to buyers all across the country. Make sure to calculate shipping costs accurately for heavier items like cabinets. Promote your Etsy listings on your social media profiles and have high-quality photographs of the items for sale. Vintage metal cabinetry is very on-trend, so pricing items a bit higher for the Etsy crowd can increase your profits.
List Vintage Metal Kitchen Cabinets on eBay
eBay is another great online marketplace to list vintage and antique metal kitchen cabinets for sale. Make sure to accurately describe the condition, provide measurements, and note any manufacturer details you can find. Use keyword phrases like “vintage,” “antique,” “retro,” and related decades when titling your listings. Promote the listings heavily when first listed and offer fast shipping times to gain more interested buyers.
Focus on Local Listings
In addition to the online selling platforms, make use of local resources like Craigslist, Nextdoor, newspaper classifieds, and any local collector groups. Vintage metal cabinets can be very heavy and difficult to ship, so buyers willing to arrange local pick-up might get you the best profits. Make sure to coordinate meet-ups in safe, public locations when selling locally to strangers.
Consider an Auction Company
If you have truly rare or valuable vintage metal kitchen cabinets, consider having them auctioned by a reputable local auction company. They can help you accurately appraise and price mid-century or other rare metal cabinetry. The right vintage pieces at auction can sometimes fetch several thousand dollars from enthusiastic collectors. Make sure to get estimates from several auctioneers before committing.
Donate and Get a Tax Deduction
If the vintage metal kitchen cabinets are in rough shape or you just want them gone without the selling hassle, consider donating them. Many charities, theaters, schools, and other nonprofit groups accept donated vintage items. Make sure to get a receipt for your donation so you can claim a tax deduction. Even unusable cabinets can often be accepted for metal recycling too.
Conclusion
Selling vintage metal kitchen cabinets takes some time and effort, but the profits can make it worthwhile. With the popularity of mid-century modern style and industrial chic kitchens, your old metal cabinets could fetch some good money. Use online platforms like Facebook and eBay along with local pick-up options to maximize your chances of selling. Just make sure to thoroughly clean, repair, price, photograph, and promote your vintage metal cabinets to attract the right buyers. With the help of these tips, you can give your unused vintage metal kitchen cabinets a new home while earning cash back on your investment.