Local, full-service estate liquidation for families, trustees, and executors
FAQ - How does estate sales work
Please feel free to contact us if you have any other questions or concerns
- What is an estate sale?
An estate sale (also called estate liquidation or a tag sale) is the sale of personal property to the public due to probate, downsizing, moving, decluttering, or other life changes. It is a professionally managed sale designed to maximize value for the estate.
- How do I get started with an estate sale?
Start with a free, on-site consultation. We review the contents, timeline, and goals, then recommend the best estate sale or liquidation approach.
- What is the general estate sale process?
The process begins with a free consultation. If we move forward, an agreement is signed and a sale date is scheduled. We then handle sorting, staging, pricing, and advertising before conducting the sale and issuing payment afterward.
- How long does it take to prepare an estate sale?
Setup typically takes one to two weeks, depending on the size of the estate and the volume of contents.
- Are there fees besides your commission?
There are no additional fees for standard services. Optional expenses, such as appraisers, movers, disposal services, or newspaper advertising, may be deducted from the sale proceeds if needed.
- How many days does an estate sale last?
Most estate sales run two days. Larger estates may require up to four days.
- Do you release prices before the sale?
No. Pricing is not released prior to the sale. All items are clearly priced on site to ensure fairness and reflect real-time market demand.
- Why do people have to wait in line at the beginning of a sale?
Entry may be staggered at the start of busy estate sales to ensure safety, fairness, and an organized shopping experience. This is standard practice in the estate sale industry.
- Do you offer discounts or negotiate prices?
We do not use a fixed discount schedule. Pricing flexibility is based on bundled purchases. Buyers purchasing multiple items may receive greater overall value while we maintain fiduciary responsibility to the estate.
- Do you allow pre-sales or early entry?
Early entry is not allowed once advertising is published. In rare cases, pre-sale arrangements may be considered if they significantly benefit the estate.
- Do you use professional appraisers?
Most items do not require a specialty appraiser. When needed, we work with qualified professional appraisers.
- Do you or your staff buy items from the sale?
We follow strict guidelines. Internal purchases are generally allowed only on the final day of the sale, and items remain on display throughout the sale.
- When will I be paid after the sale?
Payment is issued within fourteen days after the sale concludes. The amount reflects gross sales minus commission and approved expenses, as outlined in the Estate Sale Agreement.
- How will my home be left after the sale?
The home is left broom clean. Unsold items remain for cleanout, and sale-related debris is removed. Additional deep cleaning may be required for listing or showing.
- Are you insured and bonded?
Yes. We are insured for liability and bonded through Antiques & Collectibles Insurance Group.
- Do you have a physical store?
No. We do not operate a retail store or warehouse. We also offer online estate sales when onsite sales are not feasible.
- Do you have a contract I can review?
Yes. A sample contract is available upon request.
- Do you handle pricing, staging, and advertising?
Yes. We manage sorting, staging, pricing, and marketing to attract qualified buyers and maximize estate value.