How this calculator works
Used goods don't lose value in a straight line. Most items take their biggest hit the moment they leave the store — the "used" penalty — then decline more gradually each year until they hit a floor where they hold residual value. This calculator applies a different curve to each category, then adjusts for condition and market demand.
It also accounts for something most sellers forget: the sales tax you already paid. When someone buys your item privately, they typically pay no sales tax — so comparing your asking price against the item's after-tax retail cost is the honest comparison, and it justifies a smaller discount than buyers expect.
Depreciation by category
| Category | First-year drop | Yearly decline after | Value floor |
|---|---|---|---|
| Electronics | ~30% | ~25% per year | 10% of retail |
| Vehicles | ~20% | ~15% per year | 15% of retail |
| Furniture | ~45% | ~10% per year | 15% of retail |
| Clothing | ~60% | ~15% per year | 5% of retail |
| Tools | ~20% | ~8% per year | 30% of retail |
| Luxury / designer | ~25% | ~5% per year | 40% of retail |
These are baseline curves for typical items. Rare, discontinued, or collectible pieces can beat them badly — that's what the demand slider is for. For category-specific guidance, see our electronics, vehicle, and furniture guides.
Frequently asked questions
Why does the calculator show three prices?
List at builds in ~10% negotiating room, because marketplace buyers will haggle. Fair is the true value estimate. Quick sale is roughly 15% under fair value — the price that usually sells within days instead of weeks.
Should I include the sales tax I paid in my price?
You can't recover it dollar-for-dollar, but it belongs in the conversation. If a buyer says "this is only 20% off retail," you can point out that they're also paying zero tax — a real saving of 5–15% depending on your region.
How much does condition matter?
A lot. "Like new with box" can add 10% or more over a typical used price, while visible wear or missing parts can cut the value nearly in half. Be honest — overgraded items generate lowball offers and wasted meetups.
Is this a formal appraisal?
No — it's a market-informed estimate for private sales on marketplaces like Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, and Kijiji. For insured, antique, or collectible items, get a professional appraisal.