Buying heavy machinery on Facebook Marketplace can be a savvy move for business owners hunting for deals—but financing these purchases presents unique challenges. In this article, we’ll guide you through the essential steps to secure equipment financing for marketplace finds: what to look for, how to vet the seller, and how to work with a lender to close the deal smoothly. Whether you’re eyeing a used excavator or a nearly new skid steer, we’ll help you turn that social media listing into a jobsite-ready asset.
Considering Marketplace Machinery
It’s common for buyers to seek financing for major purchases like work trucks or heavy equipment. At Oakmont Capital Services (OCS), we’ve seen customers travel hours to dealerships in search of used inventory. But in-person shopping isn’t the only option. Many now turn to online listings—whether in local newspapers, on Craigslist, or increasingly, on Facebook Marketplace.
Facebook Marketplace is now a go-to source for vehicles, motorcycles—and especially heavy equipment. Originally a social platform for connecting through groups and posts, Facebook expanded its functionality to include Marketplace, allowing users to buy and sell a wide range of items. As the platform becomes more popular, OCS has helped many customers secure financing for deals with private sellers—covering titled assets like trucks or non-titled pieces like excavators, farm equipment, and more.
Avoiding Fraudulent Finds
When purchasing equipment online, it’s essential to research the product, the seller, and the lender financing the deal. These steps are always important—but on Facebook Marketplace, extra vigilance is crucial. The platform is home to a wide range of listings, and unfortunately, that includes scammers looking to exploit buyers for profit.
Be cautious of ads with prices that are significantly lower—or unusually higher—than the typical market value. A suspiciously low price may be a tactic to lure buyers into paying for equipment that doesn’t exist. Likewise, overpriced listings can be a red flag for dishonest sellers.
Always inspect equipment photos carefully, and whenever possible, view the item in person to confirm its condition and functionality. Damaged or misrepresented equipment is a common issue in online sales. The most cautious motto? “If it looks too good to be true, it probably is.”
Engaging a Lender That Understands Facebook Finds
OCS offers a streamlined process to help you finance equipment purchased through Facebook Marketplace. Whether you’re new to Marketplace or a seasoned buyer, our step-by-step approach ensures a smooth transaction.
Step One: Connect with an OCS Representative
New customers begin by completing an online credit application. Once approved, an OCS finance professional will guide you through the loan process. Returning customers can reach out directly to their rep via email, phone, or text to get started.
Step Two: Review the Listing and Start the Credit Process
After reviewing the Marketplace listing and obtaining an application approval, your OCS representative will provide a preliminary estimate of the equipment cost and loan terms. Once discussed, the rep will contact the seller to gather essential details like name, phone number, email, and proof of ownership.
Proof of Ownership Checkpoint
Before proceeding, it’s critical to verify that the seller has proof of ownership. The most straightforward form is a title, which simplifies the transfer and confirms legitimacy. If the equipment is non-titled (like an excavator), sellers may provide the original purchase invoice or at times, proof of insurance—though these alternatives can complicate the process. This is to protect you as the buyer to ensure that the piece of equipment is free from liens.
Step Three: Finalize the Deal
Once approved, loan documents are sent to the buyer, and an online bill of sale is issued to the seller. Both parties complete the paperwork, and funds can be sent to the seller via wire, ACH, or check by mail. The transaction is then processed.
Financing Facebook Finds
Facebook Marketplace has rapidly become a go-to source for heavy machinery and equipment. At OCS, we’ve adapted to this trend by refining our financing solutions to meet the needs of today’s buyers. Whether you’re purchasing a skid steer, excavator, or truck, Oakmont Capital Services is here to help you turn your Marketplace find into a jobsite-ready asset. We Make It Possible.
