Estate Sales 101: What to Expect When You Shop an Estate Sale

Welcome to Estate Sales 101.

This article walks you through what you can expect when shopping estate sales, from what happens before the sale even begins to what the experience is like once you’re inside the home.

If you’re new to estate sales, a little preparation goes a long way. Knowing what to expect helps you shop confidently and enjoy the experience.

BEFORE THE SALE

1. Online Photos give you a preview. - Before the sale begins, you can expect to see photos of select items online. Estate sales are not online auctions, so you will not see every item that will be available. These photos are meant to give you a general sense of the style, quality, and types of items you can expect to find.

2. Instagram Stories are part of the experience. In the week leading up to the sale, we are active on Instagram Stories. This is where you’ll often see sneak peeks, possible special deals, and helpful information about the sale.

3. Estate Sales are not boutiques. Estate sales are a hands-on, do-it-yourself shopping experience. Come prepared with your own tote bags, boxes, or wrapping materials. Packing supplies are not provided.

4. Plan for Payment. Expect to pay cash. Credit cards may be accepted with a convenience fee, but internet connections cannot be guaranteed, so it’s best to come prepared.

You’ve made it! You’re in the house, tote bag in hand, and ready to shop. Here’s what to expect next.

DURING THE SALE

1. Items will be organized and shoppable. Once inside the home, items will be organized and displayed to make shopping as easy as possible.

2. Pricing may be individual or posted by signage. Items may be priced individually or with signage posted in the room. If you don’t see a price tag on an item, look for nearby signs or ask an estate sale staff member for assistance.

3. All items are sold as is, where is. Make sure you inspect items carefully before purchasing. All sales are final and refunds are not offered.

4. There is usually a SOLD table that is set up near the cashier.  You can put your items on that table while you continue to shop.

5. Shoppers handle carrying and loading. Estate sales are self-service by nature. Shoppers are responsible for carrying, wrapping, and loading their purchases. While staff may be able to assist with small items when available, we are unable to load heavy furniture or provide delivery services. Please plan accordingly and bring help for larger items.

Pricing Expectations

• Day 1: Prices are firm

• Day 2: All remaining items are 50% off

WHAT TO EXPECT ON DAY 2

1. Everything is 50% off.

2. All items must be removed by the end of the sale.

3. Timing matters.
   Savvy shoppers often scope out what they want on Day 1 and return early on Day 2 to purchase. If you want something specific, coming early on the final day is important.

THE ATMOSPHERE

You can expect the estate sale staff to be courteous. You can expect to be treated fairly and with respect.

1. Homes have varying degrees of cleanliness. People are doing the best they can.

2. Other shoppers are just like you. They want a good experience and are generally helpful and just plain nice.

Expect to find things you didn’t know you needed or wanted.

Expect to see things you have never seen before.

Expect to get hooked on estate sales.

AFTER THE SALE

If you enjoyed your experience and want to stay connected, you can find information about upcoming sales and shop updates in a few places:

• Our website

• Our email list

• Facebook

• Instagram

We have two Instagram accounts:

• @crossroadsestatesales for everything related to estate sales, including how to shop and upcoming events

• @crossroadsestatesalesshop which showcases items available in our resale shop

Follow one or both. We’re glad you’re here.