Several factors affect how long it takes to organize and conduct an estate sale, including the size of the home, the quantity of items, and scheduling considerations. In most cases, the typical turnaround time from consultation to sale completion is approximately 14–21 days. In certain situations, we have successfully completed estate sales in as little as five days, although this accelerated timeline is rarely ideal. We offer on-site consultations or FaceTime walk-throughs, often available the same day. Even a brief phone conversation can usually provide enough information for us to estimate the timeline and determine the best approach to meet your needs.

An initial consultation can begin with a brief phone conversation, which often provides enough information to discuss the situation and answer basic questions. In many cases, a virtual walk-through (FaceTime or video) or an on-site consultation is recommended so we can better evaluate the contents of the home and determine the most effective approach. This helps us provide accurate guidance regarding the type of sale, expected timeline, commission structure, and services needed. An on-site consultation typically takes about 15–30 minutes and allows us to quickly assess the estate and recommend the best strategy to meet the client’s needs.

There is no single set commission for estate sales, as each estate is unique. Commission rates vary depending on factors such as the size of the estate, the quantity and condition of items, the overall value of the contents, the location, and the services required to prepare and conduct the sale. Most estate sales fall within a typical commission range of approximately 20% to 35% of the gross sales. However, commissions can vary from about 10% to 50% depending on the scope of work involved. Estates with higher-value contents or larger collections often qualify for lower commission rates. In some cases, high-value individual items such as automobiles, fine jewelry, or significant collectibles may be offered with reduced commissions that can be below 10%. During the consultation we review the estate and provide a clear proposal outlining the recommended type of sale, services included, timeline, and commission structure, so you can determine the approach that best meets your needs.

Most estates sell the majority of their contents. Online estate sales often sell over 95% of items, while traditional in-home estate sales typically sell between 60% and 90% of the contents offered. For items that remain after the sale, we help coordinate several solutions depending on the client’s preferences. Options may include donation to local charities, private purchase of remaining items, or professional clean-out services. Our goal is to make the process as easy as possible and ensure the home is left ready for its next step, whether that is preparing the property for sale or moving. If needed, complete clean-out services can also be arranged for an additional fee or adjusted commission structure.

In most cases, yes. Estate sales typically include furniture, antiques, artwork, jewelry, collectibles, decorative items, tools, household goods, and even vehicles. Our goal is to sell as much of the estate as possible by marketing items to both local buyers and our broader network of collectors and dealers. Items that are not appropriate for sale, such as personal documents, family photographs, or sentimental items, should be removed before the sale. During preparation we also help identify items that may need to be set aside. If needed, we can also assist with donation coordination or clean-out services for remaining items once the sale is complete.