How Much Is It Worth Used? A Fair-Pricing Guide

There is no official price list for second-hand goods in Israel (unlike cars, which have the "Levi Yitzhak" index). This guide gives you tools for fair pricing: how to check what similar items actually sell for, depreciation rules of thumb, and indicative price ranges. Every number here is condition-dependent — the buyer and seller set the final price between themselves, not this guide.

How to Price a Second-Hand Item

The most reliable method: check what similar items (same model/type, similar condition) actually sell for in active listings — not what unsold, stale listings are asking. Sort by condition tier: new-in-box (unopened), like-new (minimal use, no wear), used (normal use, light wear), needs refurbishment (repair/cleaning required before use). Check completeness — accessories (charger, remote, stroller base, assembly screws) directly affect price. Comparing to a similar item's new retail price is a good reference point before discounting for condition.

Depreciation Rules of Thumb by Category

Furniture (sofas, tables, chairs) — Israeli source: yad2 magazine states furniture in excellent condition should sell for about 50% of its price new; in worse condition, reduce significantly based on repairs needed. Solid wood holds value longer than flat-pack/upholstered furniture. Electronics & smartphones — international estimate, not official Israeli data: one generation back (about a year) ≈ 45-55% of new price; two generations back ≈ 30-40%. Depends heavily on battery and screen condition. Baby gear (strollers, car seats) — international estimate, not official Israeli data: a stroller/car seat in good condition ≈ 40-55% of retail price. Important safety note: for car seats, the expiration date (typically 6-10 years from manufacture) and the absence of any accident history — even a minor one — matter more than price. Do not buy a car seat that was in an accident or has expired. Home appliances (fridge, washing machine) — international estimate, not official Israeli data: value drops sharply in the first year (about 50% of original price) then by roughly 10% more per year; a 5-year-old fridge ≈ 20-30% of original price. Bikes (city bikes) — international estimate, not official Israeli data: in good condition, one year after purchase ≈ 55-80% of retail price; afterward a moderate decline of about 7-10% more per year. Brand and frame material matter significantly.

Indicative Ranges for 10 Common Items

Indicative — previous-gen iPhone (128-256GB, healthy battery): ₪1,200–2,500, depending on model and condition. Indicative — branded baby stroller: ₪500–1,800 (complete premium-brand strollers can exceed ₪2,000). Indicative — 3-seat sofa: ₪800–3,000, depending on brand and upholstery condition. Indicative — family fridge (about 350-500 liters): ₪800–3,000, depending on age and condition. Indicative — city bike (recognized brand): ₪400–1,800. Indicative — washing machine (about 7 kg): ₪500–1,200. Indicative — dining table: ₪400–1,800 (full sets with chairs can go significantly higher). Indicative — flatscreen TV: ₪200–3,800, heavily dependent on size and panel generation. Indicative — office chair: ₪100–1,000, depending on brand and ergonomics. Indicative — split AC unit (working, not including installation): ₪800–2,500.

What Kills Value and What Holds It

What kills value: incompleteness (missing accessories — charger, remote, stroller base), odor (smoke, pets, mold — hard to remove and significantly hurts demand), stains or fabric damage (upholstery, mattresses), no box/warranty (especially for electronics), infestations in upholstered furniture (woodworm, bed bugs — a total dealbreaker), a locked phone or suspicious IMEI, a car seat/stroller with no known manufacture date or an accident history (a safety dealbreaker), structural damage (broken frame, worn springs), and storage in humid conditions. What holds value: a recognized brand, full completeness plus receipts/proof of purchase, documented "like-new" condition with clear photos, comparing to a similar new item's price when pricing, and solid wood over flat-pack furniture.

Chat Estimate

Shukshuk's chat currently provides value estimates for real estate only (based on government transaction data) — not for second-hand items. If you want to know what your apartment or house is worth, ask at /valuation. For other items, this guide, comparing to similar active listings, and negotiation between the parties are the right way to price.

FAQ

How do I know what a fair price is for a used item?

Check what similar items (same model, similar condition) actually sell for in active listings, not what unsold listings are asking. Weigh condition, completeness (accessories) and whether the box/warranty exists.

Does the brand matter for pricing?

Yes, significantly. Recognized brands hold higher value over time — in electronics (e.g. Apple), bikes, and quality furniture alike.

I priced it too high — what happens?

The listing simply won't sell and will sit for a long time. If there is no interest after a few weeks, it is a good sign to check similar listings that are selling and adjust the price.