How to sell a used stairlift and get a fair price

According to mobility experts, a stairlift, like a car, loses a significant amount of its value as soon as it's installed, but that doesn't mean it's worthless. Learning how to sell a used stairlift effectively can help you recoup some of your investment, especially for newer, standard models.

Quick Summary

Successfully selling a used stairlift involves a multi-step process, from properly assessing its value based on make, model, and age, to choosing the right sales channel, whether through a buyback program, professional reseller, or a private online marketplace, all while managing buyer expectations about installation and costs.

Key Points

• Know Your Equipment: Before selling, gather all details including the manufacturer, model, age, and service history to prove its value.

• Differentiate Stairlift Types: Straight stairlifts are far more marketable than custom-built curved ones, which are difficult to resell entirely.

• Research Market Value: Don't rely on the original purchase price; research what similar used models are actually selling for online to set a realistic price.

• Choose the Right Sales Channel: Decide between a quick, low-effort sale to a professional company or a potentially higher-priced, higher-risk private sale.

• Prioritize Professional Removal: Always use a qualified technician for removal, whether you or the buyer pays for it, to ensure safety and prevent damage.

• Beware of Scams: Exercise caution when selling privately, especially with payment methods, and never allow removal until funds have securely cleared.

Your First Steps to Selling a Used Stairlift

Before you can sell your stairlift, you need to know exactly what you have. Gathering the right information is the most crucial first step and will help you determine its true market value.

Gather Essential Stairlift Information

To attract a serious buyer, have these details ready:

• Manufacturer and Model: Check the user manual or the stairlift's main unit for the brand name and model number.
• Age and Service History: Find the date of purchase and gather any maintenance records. A service history can prove the lift is well-maintained and in good working order, which increases its value.
• Stairlift Type: Is it a straight or curved stairlift? Straight models are much easier to resell as they can be re-cut to fit another home, while curved ones are custom-built for a specific staircase and have very limited resale potential.
• Condition: Document the cosmetic and mechanical condition. Take clear photos and videos demonstrating its functionality, including the seat swivel and safety stops.
• Ownership and Manual: Have proof of ownership and the original owner's manual ready. This provides confidence to buyers and professional resellers.

Assess Your Stairlift's Resale Value

Managing your expectations about the resale price is important. Stairlifts depreciate significantly, and a buyer's priority is safety and reliability, which they can get with a new or professionally refurbished model.

• Research the Market: Look at online marketplaces like eBay or Facebook Marketplace for similar stairlifts that have actually sold, not just those listed at high prices.
• Contact Buyback Programs: The company you originally bought the stairlift from might offer a buyback program. While you won't get the original price, it can be a quick and hassle-free option.
• Request a Quote from Resellers: Specialized stairlift removal companies or resellers, like We Buy Any Stairlift, can give you a free, no-obligation quote based on the unit's specifics.

Choosing the Right Sales Channel

Your choice of sales channel will depend on your priorities: speed, price, or convenience. Each option has its own pros and cons, which should be carefully weighed.

Option 1: Sell to a Professional Stairlift Company

This is often the easiest and fastest method, especially for newer or high-demand models. Companies like the one mentioned at https://webuyanystairlift.com specialize in purchasing, removing, and refurbishing used equipment. They handle the entire process, including professional removal, which is a major benefit.

• Pros: Quick sale, professional removal included, guaranteed payment, and avoids the hassle of finding a private buyer.
• Cons: Lower resale price compared to a private sale, and they may not be interested in older or custom models.

Option 2: Sell Privately Through Online Marketplaces

Selling on platforms like Facebook Marketplace or local classifieds can potentially yield a higher price, but requires more work and carries a higher risk.

• Pros: Potential for a higher return on your investment, direct interaction with the buyer.
• Cons: Must handle all communication, pricing, and negotiations. You are also responsible for finding and paying a qualified technician for safe removal. There's a risk of scams, so be cautious and ensure payment is secure before the unit is removed.

Option 3: Explore Charitable Donations

If recouping money isn't your primary goal, donating the stairlift to a charity or a local individual in need can be a fulfilling alternative.

• Pros: Tax benefits for the donation, helps a member of your community, and many organizations can assist with removal.
• Cons: No monetary return on your investment.

A Comparison of Selling Options

Feature	Selling to a Company	Selling Privately	Donating to Charity
Resale Price	Lower; based on refurbishment needs.	Potentially higher; depends on market demand.	None; potential tax deduction.
Effort & Speed	Low effort; quick process.	High effort; can take a long time.	Low to medium effort.
Removal	Professional removal included.	Must find and pay for a technician.	Often handled by the charity.
Risk	Very low; secure payment.	High; risks of scams and dealing with inexperienced buyers.	Low; reputable charities are safe.
Ideal For...	Those prioritizing speed and convenience over maximum profit.	Those seeking the highest price and comfortable with managing the process.	Those who want to help others and receive a tax benefit.

Crucial Considerations for a Successful Sale

Regardless of your chosen method, there are a few final details to manage to ensure a smooth and responsible transaction.

The Importance of Professional Removal

Never attempt to remove a stairlift yourself. They are complex electrical devices that can be dangerous to dismantle. A qualified engineer will ensure the job is done safely, without damaging the unit or your home. If you sell privately, factor the cost of a professional removal service into your asking price.

Securing Payment When Selling Privately

If you find a private buyer, be vigilant against scams. A common scam involves a buyer sending a check for more than the asking price and asking for a refund of the difference. Insist on cash or a secure bank transfer and ensure the funds have cleared before allowing the stairlift to be removed. Meet in a safe, public place if possible, though a home visit for a stairlift is unavoidable.

The Fate of Custom Stairlifts

Custom curved stairlifts are very difficult to sell because the rail is uniquely shaped to your staircase. Your best options are usually selling the chair and motor for parts to a professional refurbisher or exploring recycling options for the components.

Conclusion: Maximize Your Value, Minimize Your Effort

Knowing how to sell a used stairlift effectively requires realistic expectations and careful consideration of your options. While you won't get back what you originally paid, a well-informed approach can help you recover a respectable portion of your investment. By gathering all the necessary information, choosing the right sales channel for your situation, and prioritizing safety with professional removal, you can make the selling process as easy and profitable as possible.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I sell a used curved stairlift?

Selling a used curved stairlift is extremely difficult because the rail is custom-built for your specific staircase. Your best option is often to sell the motor and chair for parts to a professional reseller, but the monetary return is usually minimal.

Is it safe to sell a stairlift on eBay or Facebook Marketplace?

Yes, but with caution. These platforms can connect you with many potential buyers, but you must be wary of scams. Always secure payment before professional removal and be transparent about the stairlift's condition.

Do stairlift companies buy back used stairlifts?

Many stairlift companies offer buyback programs, especially for newer, standard models that are in good condition. You can call the company you purchased it from or other local dealers to inquire about their policies and a potential offer.

How much can I expect to get for my used stairlift?

Expect a fraction of the original purchase price. The exact value depends on the make, model, age, and condition. Researching what similar units have recently sold for on secondary markets will provide the most realistic estimate.

Should I remove the stairlift myself before selling?

No, you should never attempt to remove a stairlift yourself. These are complex electrical and mechanical devices. Professional removal is crucial to prevent injury, damage to the unit, or harm to your property.

What documentation do I need to sell my used stairlift?

Having the original owner's manual, proof of purchase, and any service records is very helpful. This documentation provides a potential buyer or reseller with confidence in the unit's history and condition.

Is it possible to donate a used stairlift?

Yes, many charities and non-profit organizations that serve the elderly or those with mobility issues will accept donations of used stairlifts. They often handle the removal and use the equipment for someone in need.