Frequently Asked Questions
Are your services insured?
Absolutely, we are insured by the American Safety Insurance Company to protect you and your property during the sale process. We take every precaution to ensure a safe and secure event. We are also insured for debris/junk removal services as well.
What is an estate sale?
An estate sale is a sale to dispose of a substantial portion of the items owned by a person, often due to a major life event like downsizing, moving, or settling an estate after a loved one’s passing. It typically includes furniture, household goods, decor, and personal belongings. We sell everything.
How is an estate sale different from a garage sale?
Estate sales are generally larger in scope, involving the contents of an entire home, and are often managed by professionals. They focus on selling a wide range of items, from antiques to everyday household goods, at fair market value. Garage sales are usually smaller, self-managed, and feature miscellaneous items at bargain prices.
How do I prepare for your estate sale services?
Do not throw away or donate anything. It’s our job to determine trash and treasures, and also our job to find as much value in the home as possible for our clients. Once the agreement is signed, you would provide us with access to the home via a set of keys or lockbox and a list of any items you wish to keep or exclude from the sale. Our team will handle the rest, including sorting, pricing, and staging items for the sale. Clear communication about your goals and timeline is helpful.
What types of items do you sell?
We sell a wide variety of items, including furniture, appliances, kitchenware, clothing, jewelry, artwork, collectibles, tools, and more. If it’s in the home and not excluded, we’ll evaluate its potential for sale.
How do you determine pricing for items?
Our team researches current market values, considering factors like condition, brand, age, and demand. We aim to price items competitively to attract buyers while maximizing your return.
Do you handle valuable or antique items?
Yes, we have expertise in identifying and appraising valuable items, including antiques, collectibles, and jewelry. We may consult specialists for high-value items to ensure accurate pricing and marketing.
How long does an estate sale take?
Estate sales can run anywhere from 1-4 days, depending on the contents of the home and typically over a weekend, however weekday sales can also be successful. Preparation, including sorting and pricing, may take 1-2 weeks depending on the size of the estate and the volume of items.
What happens to unsold items?
After the sale, we can arrange for donation and/or disposal of unsold items based on your preferences. This is part of our Estate Clear-Out service and an additional fee would apply. Our rates are extremely reasonable for clear-outs, we offer it as a courtesy to our clients.
How do you advertise the estate sale?
We promote sales through our website, social media, local advertising, email lists, and estate sale listing platforms to attract a large pool of buyers, including collectors and bargain hunters. We have a large customer base that follow us from sale to sale.
What are your fees?
Our fees vary based on the size and complexity of the sale. We typically only work on straight commission and charge a percentage of the sale proceeds, which covers setup, pricing, staffing, and marketing, although in extreme situations of hoarding and clutter, a labor fee may be added.
Do I need to be present during the sale?
No, you don’t need to be present. Our team manages the entire process, including setup, conducting the sale, and post-sale cleanup. We keep you informed with regular updates.
Can you conduct sales in small spaces or apartments?
Yes, we can manage estate sales in any space, from large homes to small apartments. We adapt our approach to suit the size and layout of the property.
How do I schedule an estate sale with you?
You can contact us at (424) 469-6241 or send an email to [email protected] to discuss your needs. We’ll schedule a consultation to assess the estate, review your goals, and propose a plan and timeline.