How HomeLoop Checks and Refurbishes Items for Resale

Buying something pre-owned always comes with a question: what state is it really in? At HomeLoop, the answer depends on how the item came to be listed. Some items are bought by HomeLoop and go through a checking and refurbishing process. Others are listed by their owners and are clearly marked as unchecked.

This article explains both, in plain terms, so you know what you are looking at before you order.

Two kinds of listings

The process for checked items

When HomeLoop buys an item, it follows a general sequence. Every item is different, so the exact work varies, but the steps below describe the approach.

1. Collection

After an item is bought, the team collects it from the seller's home or office. Collection is the first chance to see the item in person, confirm it matches what was described, and handle it carefully in transit. If you have items of your own to pass on, you can sell or list your items with HomeLoop.

2. Inspection

Each item is looked over for the things that affect how it works and how long it will last:

• Furniture: frame stability, joints, drawers and hinges, upholstery, surface marks
• Appliances: power, core functions, seals, noise and visible wear
• Electronics: power, screens, ports, buttons and basic functions
• Fashion and kids items: fabric condition, fastenings, stains and completeness

Items that are not safe or not worth repairing are not put up for sale.

3. Cleaning

Pre-owned items are cleaned before they are photographed. The method depends on the material. Upholstery, wood, metal, plastic and electronics each need a different approach.

4. Repairs

Where a repair makes sense, it is carried out. This might mean tightening or replacing hardware, fixing a drawer runner, replacing a worn part on an appliance, or touching up a surface. Honest wear that doesn't affect use may be left and reflected in the condition tag rather than hidden.

5. Testing appliances and electronics

Appliances and electronics are powered on and run through their main functions. A fridge is checked for cooling, a washing machine for filling, draining and spinning, and electronics for basic operation. Testing shows the item works at the time it is checked. It is not a guarantee of how long it will last, which is why any warranty is stated separately on each item.

6. Photos of the real item

Listings for checked items use photos of the actual item you will receive, not stock images. Marks, scuffs or signs of use should be visible in the photos, and the description fills in details.

How condition tags are assigned

After inspection and any repairs, each checked item gets one of five tags. The tag is a judgement based on how the item looks and works.

• New: Unused, or in new condition.
• Premium: Very light signs of use and fully working.
• Semi-new: Lightly used with minor signs of wear.
• Good condition: Clearly used, with visible wear, but working as it should.
• Fair: Noticeable wear or cosmetic flaws, priced to reflect that, and still functional.

If a specific mark or issue matters to you, check the photos and ask about it.

What "Unchecked by our experts" means

HomeLoop also lets owners list their items through the "List it on HomeLoop" option. These listings are useful because they widen the range of what's available, but it is important to understand what they are:

• The item has not been inspected, cleaned, repaired or tested by HomeLoop.
• The condition information comes from the owner.
• There is no warranty.
• HomeLoop sells the item on the owner's behalf for a commission, and the owner's contact details stay private.

Unchecked listings can still be good buys. Just ask more questions before ordering.

Warranty: only where stated

Warranty is not automatic. If a checked item includes a warranty, it will be stated on that item's listing. If nothing is stated, assume there is no warranty, and ask if you are unsure.

Ask before you order

There are no customer accounts and no online payment. You order with cash on delivery, or message on WhatsApp to ask questions or negotiate. Good questions to ask include:

• Can you send another photo or a short video?
• What are the exact dimensions?
• Was anything repaired or replaced?
• Is there a warranty on this item?

You can browse checked items and owner listings together in the HomeLoop store.

FAQ

Are all items on HomeLoop checked?

No. Items bought by HomeLoop are checked and given a condition tag. Owner listings are marked "Unchecked by our experts" and have not been inspected by the team.

Does every checked item come with a warranty?

No. A warranty applies only where it is stated on the item's listing.

What is the difference between Premium and Semi-new?

Premium items show very light signs of use, while Semi-new items are lightly used with minor wear. Photos of the real item show what the tag means in practice.

Can I ask about an item before ordering?

Yes. You can message on WhatsApp with questions or to negotiate before placing a cash-on-delivery order.