How to Navigate an Estate Sale

For the uninitiated, estate sales can seem mysterious or intimidating. The estate sale process can vary depending on the liquidation company running it. How can you navigate the crowds and find the best deals? Here are some tips and tricks.

First, search the internet for estate sales in your area. Many liquidation companies post pictures of the most enticing items online a week before the sale. Sign up for email newsletters to keep an eye on local sales. Don’t hesitate to contact the liquidation company to find out how they run their sales (starting time, recommended arrival time, if there’s a signup sheet, what payment methods are accepted…), but do resist inquiring about specific items, as this may cause the dealer to raise the price.

On the day of the sale, come prepared with knowledge of the sale items. Most estate sales run on a first come first serve basis, so be aware that you may have to wait in line (to limit the number of customers in the home at a given time). Items are usually marked with a selling price, and buyers pick up items and carry them throughout the sale. Items that are too big to carry can be “marked sold” and picked up later. When the sale starts, prices may not be negotiable. Wait an hour or two before negotiating with the dealer. You may also “bid” on items that you don’t want to pay the asking price for. Just be aware that someone else may pay full price for that item before the end of the sale when bids are opened.

Each estate sale is different, but with a little practice and experience, anyone can become a savvy estate sale shopper!

Want to learn more? Ideal Trading is a full-service liquidation provider, offering services tailored to your needs, or the needs of your business. Call us at 973.343.6684, or send a message through our contact page.