Can you tell us a bit about yourself and how you got started in furniture flipping?
In April of 2023 I was working at a sales job, after quitting a job that I was really passionate about, and felt stuck. My post-partum journey was incredibly tough and I began losing my own identity in the middle of all of the chaos. I was exhausted mentally, emotionally, and physically with an excruciating commute. I consistently wondered if there was something better for me out there but did not know where to look. I stumbled onto a furniture flipping video from (what was, at the time, a complete stranger) and immediately it caught my attention! She made a simple reel about furniture flipping for beginners and I was amazed at how she took cheap, basic, and hideous nightstands and made them look gorgeous! I studied and learned the lingo and supplies needed and then I got to work. I began sourcing my first piece and found a cute end table for $14.99. I bought it, shoved it into my sedan, and got to work that night! It took me just under a week to finish it, and only three days after listing it, it sold for the full price at $135! I was shocked!! Somebody wanted a piece that I had a part in refinishing? Somebody wanted something that I spent hours on? It was a rush! I quickly gained traction and was able to quit my full-time job and move to a part-time job in June of 2023! I still wanted to learn how to improve. I started posting on my social media, engaging with other flippers, asking tips and advice, and getting my hands on more pieces! In my first year I completed 50 different pieces and 20 of those were customs! This year so far I am pacing to double that number! Working part-time, taking care of my beautiful daughter, and trying to pursue a side-gig was really tight most of the time. I struggled to keep my priorities straight and oftentimes felt like I was not good enough for it all. That could not stop me. I kept pushing! I pursued more markets, found more clients, and was able to secure enough work to double my part-time income. In May of 2024 I quit my part-time job and God has continued to bless me with an abundance of work.
What is the process you follow when selecting a piece to flip? What are some key factors you consider?
Most of my pieces are custom pieces which requires me to work directly with a client on what their needs are! This includes comparing measurements, style, functionality, and sturdiness! I always communicate consistently with the client to ensure it checks all of their boxes! When sourcing a piece for my own project, in order to make a profit, I make sure to prioritize three things. Size of repairs – minimal; original price – Below 10% of what I could sell it for completely refinished; and the popularity of the piece for my market! For example, a long dresser with 9 drawers is very popular, so if I could sell one, completely refinished for $800-$1,100, I want to find one with very minimal damage and between $0-$110! This helps me gain a higher profit and continue to grow!
Could you describe a particularly challenging project you’ve worked on and how you overcame the obstacles?
A couple of months ago I was so overwhelmed. I was working part-time, parenting my beautiful daughter, and trying to finish a 10-piece bedroom set in under a month. I was exhausted. I remember standing in my driveway, looking at the pieces that still needed to be painted, and I began sobbing. I felt so stuck. I felt like I was drowning in such a massive workload. This was such a real and discouraging feeling. So, my husband
seeing this pain and worry, encouraged me to take smaller bites! Focus on smaller tasks that need to be done, focus on one piece at a time or one portion rather than being crushed by the entire checklist. It helped immensely! I took smaller tasks, I watched everything come together so much quicker and smoother than expected, and I ended up meeting my deadline. This was a phenomenal lesson that I am stronger now for.
What advice would you give to someone who is just starting out in furniture flipping? Are there any common mistakes to avoid?
Start small! There are so many techniques, tools, and tips that can feel so overwhelming but without getting started, you will never be able to comprehend them all! So, start with a small piece (nightstands, an end table, a coffee table) and start by learning the prepping techniques! Start by watching a beginner video while working on your own piece side-by-side! Learn by experience!
What trends are you currently seeing in furniture design and restoration? How do you incorporate these trends into your custom pieces?
A paint wash to lighten the wood is by far my favorite trend! I think that this technique is going to be a staple in refinishing furniture and I am so excited to continue to improve in the technique! I have used this technique on over 10 pieces in order to really keep the natural wood’s look and still protect the wood!
Can you share a success story from your workshops/teachings where a student went on to create something amazing?
I have been able to share my thoughts on working on customs through my social media platforms and it has caught a lot of engagement! Being upfront and honest about the benefits and difficulties has made me vulnerable in this topic! I have spoken to multiple followers who have been incredibly excited to share that because of my posts, they have began custom work. I have followers who have completed their first custom job because of a post I shared and shared my contract that I use! I am so speechless that these powerful individuals are seeking advice and courage from my content! They are finding confidence through my work, that is so incredible. This is such a blessing!!
What are your future plans for Mariah Flips Furniture? Are there any new projects or initiatives you’re excited about?
I am super excited to see what is in store for MFF! This is my second year flipping furniture and I already have seen so much more growth compared to the first year! I started a YouTube channel a couple of months ago and have been so excited to edit and share long form videos! This platform has helped me go more in depth with my work and help explain techniques and tips more clearly. I am hoping to get a storage unit soon in order to stock up on future products more conveniently than just my garage space which will also provide more room for a smoother workspace set up! I am really hopeful that this year will be a huge year for Mariah Flips Furniture and I am hoping to remember this exact article as a great reminder of the seeds that I am working hard to plant. I hope this article is able to inspire and help others to find a side-gig (or in my case a main source
of income) that they are passionate about! I really hope this article helps another person feel like they are not alone! That they can take the leap, they can get started, and that they can succeed!
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