I was told that many Estate Sales are not ones due to death but rather downsizing and or moving into assisted care living. I also think about the future when it will be time for people to go through my things. I hope they have the same sense of awe and admiration for the things I have collected through my life, the cycle continues.
ESTATE SALE ETIQUETTE
Be conscious of your surroundings, though most estate sales are run by an experienced company, sometimes a caregiver or family member is actually there.
HOW TO PREPARE TO PURCHASE
A good percentage of estate sales take credit cards, but come prepared with cash too. The estate sales run by professional companies can sometimes offer a delivery for a fee, but don't depend on it. Bring your own "SOLD" tags if you plan to buy a lot and stick them on items with your name and number. Larger estate sales offer tags at the front door.
FINDING AN ESTATE SALE
Enter your zip code and subscribe via email. Most estate sale listings will provide photos ahead of time so you can decide if you want to check it out.
MONEY SAVING TIPS
Some sales will last over a few days and you can return the following day or week and it will be 25% off and then 50% off the last day. You may as well revisit them, what do you have to lose? Usually the last hour, the sellers are willing to take anything!
EXTRA ESTATE SALE TIPS
One of my biggest tips is to see everything quickly, go through the home and then circle back slowly to really dig in. The early bird gets the worm! Big ticket items are gone first, so if you see something you like in the photos, go early. It won’t be smart to arrive looking flashy if you plan on bargaining *wink*