Question 1

What is an Estate Sale?

Accepted Answer

I like to think of an Estate Sale as the transformation of a private residence into a department store for a few days in order to try and sell most or everything the individual/family owns. Everything (and I mean everything!) in the house is categorized, organized, researched, priced, and displayed for sale. Sales usually last from 3-5 days and can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months to set up. The length of the sale and the amount of prep time needed vary depending on the size, condition, and location of the property along with a variety of other factors.

Question 2

Why do people have Estate Sales?

Accepted Answer

The reasons people decide to have Estate Sales can be as individual and unique as each client and circumstance. Of course, the most common reasons are when a family member transitions to a long-term care or assisted living facility or when someone passes on. But, there are many other reasons to consider having an estate sale including downsizing at retirement or after raising children, moving in with a family member, or selling a second home. Couples even have estate sales when they combine two households into one!

Question 3

Can only "rich" people have estate sales?"

Accepted Answer

Absolutely not! There is an estate sale solution for nearly every situation. From traditional sales to combined estates and buy-out options, there's probably an estate sale solution (and company!) that's right for you.

Question 4

How much does it cost to have an estate sale?

Accepted Answer

Generally speaking, etate sale companies work on commission. We get paid a perecentage of the revenue from the sale. The rate of commission varies from company to company and even from sale to sale. In our area, commissions usually range from about 35%-50% and are based on the size, quality, condition and location of the premesis, scheduling, and a number of other factors specific to each sale. Commissions are agreed upon before any work begins and are paid from the gross proceeds of the sale; the client usually has no up-front or out-of-pocket expenses.

Question 5

How long does it take to get ready for a sale?

Accepted Answer

Preparing a house for an estae sale can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months, or even longer. It all depends on the size, nature, and location of the estate. The overall condition of the premesis and the contents of the house can have a signficiant impact on the amount of time needed to properly organize and stage an estate sale. Be sure to have an estate sale professional do a thorough walkthrough of the property and review all the items being offered for sale before choosing a date for your sale. Proper planning and preparation are vital to the success of every sale.

Question 6

Can someone live or stay on the premises during the sale?

Accepted Answer

No. Pardon the blunt language, but this one's a deal-breaker and there's no wiggle room. No one can live or stay on the premesis at any time while LiLi's is conducting a sale. This includes the prep time, the sale days, and any/all donation and clean-out activities. I know this may sound harsh but we cannot be flexible when it comes to protecting the privacy and security of our clients and team members.