A death in the family or downsizing often leads to a house full of belongings that must be cleared out. Estate sales, facilitated by professional auction companies, can be a great way to sell off household goods and other items. However, it’s important to understand the different rates and services that estate sale companies offer before deciding on one to manage your sale.

Many estate sale companies operate on a estate auction services -based fee structure, which typically ranges between 20-50% of total sales. This includes the cost of marketing, staffing, setup and management of unsold items. The size of an estate and the complexity of the sale will also impact fees.

Estate Auction Services: A Guide for Families and Collectors

The most common services provided by estate sale companies include inventory and appraisal, staging the home (organizing and displaying items), cleaning and arranging for advertising and marketing of the sale. Some companies will even handle the disposal of unsold items for a fee.

A skilled estate sale company should be able to assess the value of most items and price them competitively. They should also be able to identify and market high-value items such as antique decor, fine jewelry or vintage clothing to ensure the best possible sale results.

During an in-person estate sale, shoppers peruse the items and place bids on what they wish to purchase. It is considered bad form to run through the house and grab everything that catches your eye without really considering whether or not it’s something you truly want. Instead, bring bags or boxes to help you transport your finds home after the sale.