Another graduation season is upon us. As college graduates from around the world step into the workforce, the traditional summer rental period is in full swing. Just like in previous years, this peak time has given a boost to the second-hand furniture market. With its affordable prices, second-hand furniture is often a go-to choice for recent graduates who may not have stable jobs or strong financial backing.
The traditional rental market is largely driven by the needs of college students looking for temporary housing and those seeking internships. Due to financial constraints, many individuals opt to rent first, prioritizing housing over other expenses. This surge in rentals has, in turn, fueled demand for second-hand furniture, making it a popular option among young professionals starting out.
In some urban villages in Guangzhou, you can find numerous second-hand furniture stores. While these shops might not be visually appealing, they offer a wide range of household items, including wardrobes, bed frames, coffee tables, and even appliances like TVs, air conditioners, and refrigerators. Cheng Bo, who runs a second-hand furniture store on Sanchong Road in Yuancun, says that even though it's summer, the furniture business has been brisk due to the influx of new graduates.
Online platforms have also become a major hub for second-hand furniture trading. When I searched for second-hand furniture listings in Guangzhou on a large community platform, over 6,000 results appeared. According to my rough count, more than 400 such listings were posted in the city on July 17 alone.
In Shenzhen, China’s largest city with a large immigrant population, the same search returned nearly 10,000 results, with over 600 posts on July 17. These online marketplaces feature a variety of furniture, from wardrobes and bookshelves to sofas and dining tables. Many listings even claim the items are “95% new†or “90% new.â€
Sellers often explain that they’re selling because they're moving and don’t want to haul old furniture. Others just want to upgrade without throwing away something still in good condition. For many, it’s a practical and cost-effective solution.
“I bought this second-hand shoe rack for only 15 yuan, which is super cheap,†said Xiao Cai, a graduate from Jinan University who recently started working. “At big furniture stores, similar racks cost tens or even hundreds of yuan.â€
Xiao Yang, another recent graduate entering the rental market, explained, “I buy second-hand furniture because it’s affordable. If the style isn’t too fancy, but it’s functional, that’s fine. I don’t expect much from used items—just that they work well.†She added that she plans to look for a chair, sofa, or desk from the second-hand market, as she doesn’t want to spend too much on something she might only use for a couple of years.
Ms. Yang, who is about to rent a 60-square-meter apartment, also plans to buy a second-hand bed. She mentioned that several people viewed her place before, but they all left because there was no bed in the bedroom. She thinks it’s impractical to buy a new one, as the tenant might not take good care of it. A second-hand bed, on the other hand, would be a better fit for her budget.
Buying second-hand furniture is a smart choice for many renters. It’s affordable and offers great value for money. However, the second-hand market isn't always regulated, so the quality can vary. To get the best deals, consumers should do their homework and inspect items carefully.
Here are a few tips when buying second-hand furniture:
1. **Check the size**: Measure your space before purchasing to avoid buying something that won’t fit.
2. **Test the structure**: Tap on chairs or tables to see if they sound solid. Shake desks or sofas to check stability.
3. **Look at the joints**: For panel furniture, make sure the seams are tight and the finish is smooth.
4. **Inspect for health risks**: Mold and dampness are common in second-hand items, so clean or renovate them before using.
5. **Compare prices**: Don’t rush into a deal—shop around to ensure you’re getting a fair price.
6. **Keep receipts**: Since after-sales service is often unreliable, keep your purchase receipt in case of disputes.
Comments: Second-hand furniture has become a popular choice among renters due to its affordability. In recent years, environmental concerns have also brought attention to the reuse of furniture. Many second-hand pieces are sold simply because the owner is moving and not damaged. Beyond just renting, could local authorities help promote the reuse of second-hand furniture in more areas? That would maximize resource use and support eco-friendly habits.
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