We operate throughout the mid-Atlantic, about half of estate sales are held when a homeowner decides to downsize to a smaller home (following divorce or retirement or to pay off debt). The other half occur when someone dies. Because the sales are designed to sell off a large portion of a home’s contents quickly, you can expect prices to be lower than what one would find at a retail store or antiqu
e shop (and sometimes even on eBay). Most estate sales sell an all-encompassing range of possessions, from the cheapest (used board games and towels) to the most expensive (antique sterling silver and high-end furniture). But what is junk to one person may be a gem to another (outsider or folk art, obscure collectibles, a vintage 60s miniskirt, out-of-date travel guide books, etc.). Who can you expect to see at an estate sale? Estate sales draw collectors, interior designers, antique dealers, and people like me who love hunting for furniture and knick knacks at bargain prices. You will know the dealers and collectors when you see them. They are there before the doors open. They are typically very savvy, competitive, efficient and driven. But don’t let that intimidate you, most dealers are only interested in narrow band of what is being offered at a sale, such as jewelry, silver, or rare coins. "Most of the dealers are in and out fast because they are trying to hit as many sales as possible in one day," he explained.
• The best stuff is usually sold in the first few hours so get there early. But, remember that what constitutes “the best stuff” is in the eye of the beholder. Moreover, if you come after the rush (later in the day or the next day), you will feel less frazzled and are in a better position to haggle.
• Don’t forget the attic and basement, where vintage treasures lurk in boxes. And remember to check out the rugs on the floor and the curtains and blinds on the windows.
• All sales are final.
• Check out the estate sale company’s website for details and photos before you go. You may discover that the sale is really a glorified garage sale (not necessarily a bad thing). If you see something that strikes your fancy, do a little research so you can make an educated assessment as to the piece’s authenticity and worth.
