If you’re trusting a company with a lifetime of belongings, it’s reasonable to ask: “How do you know what everything is worth?” One item may have cost $5,000 new. Another cost $10 fifty years ago and is now collectible. A third was expensive but has limited demand today.
Professional pricing takes more than guessing, relying on the original price, or choosing the highest number found online.
The same item can have different values depending on how and where it’s sold: a local estate sale, auction, consignment, online marketplace, specialty dealer or private sale.
The best price isn’t the highest price someone has ever asked. It’s the price that gives the item a realistic chance to sell in the right marketplace and timeframe.
Secure or clearly identify these, then stop. You don’t need to clean the whole house for us.
Estate sales have limited selling periods, so pricing often considers the discount schedule. Early in the sale, protect value. Later, increase sell-through. Settle the strategy before the sale.
Depending on the agreement, some items may be excluded: vehicles, fine jewelry, significant artwork, certain collections and consignment items
Research may show an item belongs elsewhere: an auction for specialty merchandise, collections, vehicles or equipment; consignment for items that benefit from more time; or another specialized marketplace when a specific audience is needed. Research should influence where something is sold, not just its price.
If an identical-looking item sold for $750, ask before matching it:
Item A: excellent condition, original finish, complete, clean. Item B: cracked, repaired, missing parts, heavy wear. Same maker, age and model, very different values.
We account for damage, repairs, wear, missing parts, stains, odors, functionality, completeness and original finish.
It depends on the merchandise. Some items are individually priced, while certain low-value merchandise may be grouped.
Online marketplaces are one source, but asking prices alone shouldn’t determine value. Completed sales are more useful.
No. They serve different purposes.
Share any information you have. The strategy should reflect current market conditions and your agreement with the company.
Buyer preferences and collecting markets change. Age alone doesn’t guarantee demand.
Yes, depending on the agreed discount strategy. Many sales use an initial price followed by planned reductions.
It depends on the size of the estate and the number of specialty items. Everyday goods are priced efficiently, while jewelry, art, coins, vehicles and collections need more research.
Discuss the post-sale plan before the sale. Options include more selling methods, consignment, auction, donation, removal or return to you.
