subject: Scoring Treasures At Estate Sales [print this page] A whole industry has sprung up around the liquidation of estates. Generally the term connotes very valuable merchandise, but the truth is that estate sales are simply the means of selling off all or most of the furnishings left behind after a death in the family, or disposing of items no longer wanted or needed by people who are downsizing or perhaps moving long distance. For those in a hurry to dispose of all the furnishings, many items will be sold below fair value, so if you're looking for a good deal or an unusual item, estate sales can be a great place to treasure hunt.
For many people, the concept of trying to manage the sell-off of an entire household of furnishing is overwhelming. Organizing all the merchandise, as well as pricing it correctly and displaying it will take time and effort. This is where the professionals can help; they are knowledgeable about the process, and efficient at getting it done for you. Many "Estate Sale" businesses have appraisers on staff who can help you price all the belongings at fair value prices that will actually get the items sold. Every item will be displayed and tagged, and professional sales teams will be on hand to help prospective buyers as well as manage damage control and prevent theft.
The professionals are well versed in the value of all kinds of merchandise, so it is not always easy finding bargains, but it is easy to find treasures. Because a professional estate sale business is tasked with selling all the merchandise, bargain prices can often be found closer to the end of the sale, which often runs several days. Since unsold items are usually donated to charitable organizations, offers might be accepted late in the sale. Treasure hunters beware though. If you find a "treasure" you must have, you could lose out if you wait until the end of the sale.
Many valuable or higher end estates are auctioned off, rather than being held at the residence. While many items will have minimum bids, if no minimum bids are imposed, it is very possible to pick up bargains at auction. If you are a treasure hunter, the contents of the auction can usually be previewed before the sale, so go check out what is there, and bid on your treasure.
Most professional estate sale businesses can be found on the internet. Merchandise for upcoming sales is often described and pictured. You can also sign up for their mailing lists so you will be informed when and where upcoming sales will be held. If there is a specific item you are seeking, you can often ask to be notified if such an item becomes available in an upcoming sale. Estate sales are a great place to score treasures, but you have to keep your eyes and ears open to what's available at any given time.
