Frequently Asked Questions
CLIENT FAQs
What services do you provide?
We offer a wide range of services, including estate sales, estate cleanouts, home organization, downsizing assistance, liquidation services, moving and relocation support, donation coordination, and other customized solutions. From the initial consultation to the final clean-up, we handle every detail to make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible.
What are your fees or commission rates for an estate sale?
Our fees are commission-based, typically a 50/50 split of total sales. This includes all services needed to run a successful estate sale. In more complex situations, such as hoarder or heavily involved estates, the commission structure may be adjusted to account for the additional time, labor, and resources required.
How do you determine the value and price of items for sale?
We determine item values through a combination of market research, professional appraisal experience, and knowledge of current trends. This allows us to price items fairly and competitively to maximize results while reflecting true market value.
How much experience do you have conducting estate sales?
We have been conducting successful estate sales since 2010, helping clients maximize the value of their belongings while providing a smooth, professional, and stress-free experience from start to finish.
What marketing strategies do you use to attract buyers?
We use a combination of online advertising, social media promotion, email newsletters, local classifieds, and on-site signage to drive strong attendance and attract serious buyers.
How long does it take to prepare for and conduct an estate sale?
Preparation typically takes about three days, depending on the size of the estate. The sale itself usually runs for three days.
What types of items do you specialize in selling?
We handle a wide range of items, including vintage goods, vehicles, collectibles, clothing, tools, furniture, jewelry, and everyday household items.
How do you ensure the security of valuable items during the sale?
We take precautions to protect all items, including securing high-value pieces and keeping them in supervised display areas throughout the sale.
Can you provide references or testimonials from past clients?
Yes, references and testimonials are available upon request from satisfied past clients.
What happens to items that do not sell?
We offer several options for unsold items, including donation to charity or responsible disposal.
What is an estate sale and how does it differ from a garage sale?
An estate sale involves selling most or all of a person’s belongings, typically due to downsizing, relocation, or settling an estate. Unlike a garage sale, estate sales are professionally organized and often include higher-value and larger collections of items.
Can I negotiate prices at an estate sale?
Yes. Pricing changes throughout the sale—Friday is full price, Saturday is typically 50% off, and Sunday is 75% off. Additional offers may be considered at staff discretion.An estate sale involves selling most or all of a person’s belongings, typically due to downsizing, relocation, or settling an estate. Unlike a garage sale, estate sales are professionally organized and often include higher-value and larger collections of items.
What types of items are available at estate sales?
Items often include furniture, antiques, collectibles, artwork, clothing, household goods, jewelry, tools, and sometimes vehicles.
How early should I arrive for the best selection?
Early arrival offers the best selection—some customers line up as early as 6:00 AM. Discounts are available later in the weekend.
How do I find upcoming estate sales near me?
You can find upcoming sales on our website homepage and estatesales.net. Be sure to follow our social media for sneak peeks and early address reveals.
Do you offer additional services, such as appraisals or buyouts?
Yes, we provide appraisal services for individual items or entire estates, as well as buyout options where we purchase the estate directly. We also offer estate cleanouts, downsizing assistance, liquidation services, moving and relocation support, donation coordination, and other customized solutions as needed.
Can I be present during the estate sale?
For the best results, we require the home to be vacant during the estate sale and ask that clients are not present. This allows our team to operate efficiently, maintain privacy, and create a smooth, professional shopping experience for buyers.
Frequently Asked Questions
SHOPPER FAQs
Are all items in good condition?
All items are sold as-is and may vary in condition. Customers are encouraged to inspect items before purchasing.
What rules should I follow during the sale?
Yes. Our sales are first come, first serve. We do not allow pre-sales or lists. Hold tables (usually in the driveway or front yard) for when customers are carrying many/large items and want to go back inside the house, and items on these tables are not for sale. Items marked with red tape are off-limits. Items with inventory tags can be held by removing the tag and bringing it to the cashier. Sales tax is charged on all purchases unless a valid seller’s permit is provided. Customers are responsible for bringing their own bags, boxes, and packing materials. We do not provide delivery or lift heavy items. All sales are final and items are sold as-is.
What happens to items that don’t sell during the estate sale?
Unsold items may be donated to charity, disposed of per client request, or removed by our post-sale clean-out team.
How are items priced at an estate sale?
Items are priced based on market value, condition, and demand. Pricing reflects current retail trends, often starting at a fraction of original retail pricing.
Do you offer delivery or pick-up services?
No. All items must be picked up during sale hours by the customer.
Can I return or exchange items?
No. All sales are final with no refunds or exchanges.
Will the estate sale be indoors or outdoors?
Our estate sales are typically held indoors at the home, though some items may also be displayed outside.
Can I get an early preview of the items before the sale starts?
No, we do not offer previews or pre-sales.
If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact us!
How long does an estate sale usually last?
Most estate sales run for three days (Friday–Sunday), depending on the size of the estate. Larger sales may begin on Thursday and run up to four days.
What payment methods are accepted?
We accept cash, debit, credit cards, Venmo and Apple Pay. There is a $10 minimum for card and Apple Pay transactions, or a $1 fee for purchases under $10. We do not accept Zelle, Cash App, or checks.