Buying a used pool table can be one of the best ways to get a high quality table at a fraction of the cost of buying new. However, it can also be confusing, risky, and sometimes expensive if you don’t know what to look for.
In the Dallas Fort Worth area, most used pool table listings are found on Facebook Marketplace, with Craigslist still being an option as well. These platforms offer a wide range of prices and table styles, but they also require diligence, especially in today’s social media driven marketplace.
This guide is designed to help buyers understand where to look, how to avoid common scams, what questions to ask, and what costs to consider before making a purchase.
Where to Look for Used Pool Tables
In our experience, Facebook Marketplace is currently the most active place to find used pool tables in the DFW area. Craigslist is still used, but inventory tends to be more limited.
While many listings are legitimate, it’s important to understand that social platforms also attract bad actors. Deals that seem too good to be true often are.
Common red flags include:
- Extremely low prices with vague descriptions
- Listings with only one photo or stock looking images
- The same table appearing in multiple listings
- Sellers requesting deposits before you’ve seen the table
- Sellers unwilling to answer basic questions
Some scam listings exist solely to collect deposits or personal information before disappearing entirely.
What a Legitimate Listing Usually Looks Like
Most private sellers are not pool table experts, so don’t expect perfect terminology. However, legitimate listings often include:
- Clear photos from multiple angles
- Information about the table size
- A visible brand badge if present
- Some background on why the table is being sold
- Reasonable responsiveness to questions
One practice we use ourselves when shopping for tables is reviewing the seller’s profile. If a profile shows little activity or only a single listing paired with an unusually low price, that can be a warning sign.
Questions You Should Always Ask the Seller
Once you believe a listing is legitimate, asking the right questions can save you time and money.
Important questions include:
- What size is the table
- Is it a slate table
- How thick are the slate pieces
- Is there any damage or problem not shown in the photos
- How long have you owned the table
- Why are you selling it
- Is the cloth in good condition
Slate Thickness Matters
If a table is slate based, one inch thick slate is generally considered the standard for a good quality pool table.
Many sellers will not know the slate thickness, and that’s normal. If they are unsure, you can often ask for a clear photo of the inside of a pocket. Looking at the pocket facing usually allows you to see the edge of the slate and estimate its thickness, even with the backing attached.
If photos in the listing are fuzzy or unclear, ask for additional clear pictures or short videos. A legitimate seller will usually be willing to provide them.
It is also worth directly asking again:
Is there any damage or issue with the table that is not described in the listing or shown in the photos?
How a seller responds to this question often tells you a lot.
Never Put Down a Deposit Without Seeing the Table
As a general rule, we do not recommend placing a deposit on a pool table you have not physically seen. Unless you have a very high level of confidence in the seller, deposits are one of the most common ways buyers lose money in online marketplaces.
What Makes a Good Pool Table a Good Investment
One of the most overlooked factors when buying used is construction quality. Many tables look great in photos but are not slate based.
Non slate tables generally have:
- Poor playability
- Shorter lifespan
- Limited resale value
A good quality slate pool table in solid condition can typically be found in the $500 to $1,250 range in the current DFW market. This is an average range and does not apply to high end commercial, luxury, or antique tables.
Occasionally, very good tables can be found for less, but this is not common. When it does happen, it’s usually because a seller needs the table removed quickly rather than the table lacking value.
The Often Missed Factor: Cushion Condition
Cushions, sometimes called bumpers, are one of the most frequently overlooked components.
Good cushions should be:
- Firm but responsive
- Securely attached
- Even across all rails
Some brands, such as Leisure Bay, are known for cushions that harden over time. These tables can look excellent visually but play poorly.
Replacing cushions usually requires replacing the cloth on the rails at the same time. This can add $750 or more to the overall cost. While this does not necessarily make a table a bad purchase, it is an important price consideration and a valid negotiation point.
Costs Buyers Often Forget to Consider
Many buyers focus only on the purchase price and overlook the total cost of ownership.
Additional costs may include:
- Professional moving and setup
- Cloth replacement
- Cushion replacement
- Minor repairs or adjustments
In the DFW market, professional moving and setup typically ranges from $350 to $600 depending on access, table size, and service level.
There are individuals advertising very low cost moves on social media. While buyers are free to use these services, it’s important to understand the risks. Pool tables are heavy and can cause serious damage to people or property if not handled properly.
Working with a fully insured professional protects both your investment and your home. Most low cost movers do not carry insurance, leaving you without recourse if something goes wrong.
Estimate Moving and Service Costs Before You Buy
One of the best ways to avoid surprises is to estimate total costs before you commit to a purchase. If you are considering a used pool table and want to understand what it may cost to move it, set it up, or perform related services, we offer a free and fast estimator you can use in advance.
This allows you to factor moving and service costs into your buying decision before committing to a table.
Why Professional Help Matters
If you’re making a meaningful investment in a pool table, the most important thing you can do is ensure:
- The table is what you believe it is
- It is moved safely
- It is set up correctly
- It plays as close to new as possible
This is the part of the process that should not be skipped.
Why Some Buyers Choose Certified Pre Owned Tables
Everything discussed above is exactly why we offer certified pre owned pool tables.
We do the shopping, inspection, repair, and restoration upfront. Our certified tables include professional delivery, setup, and brand new cloth of your choice, providing a near new experience at a used market price.
Everything discussed above is exactly why we offer certified pre owned pool tables, providing buyers with a safer and more transparent alternative to private marketplace listings.
Final Thoughts for Buyers
Buying a used pool table can be a great decision when done correctly. Diligence matters, especially in online marketplaces.
Knowing what to look for, what questions to ask, and what costs to expect helps ensure your purchase is enjoyable rather than frustrating.