The task of selecting an estate sale company can seem overwhelming since the need for one is not something you are faced with on a regular basis. We have delved into the world of Estate Sale companies and have come up with some tips to help guide you in your search for the right estate sale company:
- Call as many companies that are in your area and ask what percentage they charge for the services they offer.
- Check with the Better Business Bureau on the estate sale companies that you are interested in hiring to ensure that they are in good standing.
- Interview at least 2 of them in person and ask for references.
- Visit a sale of the companies you are interested in so you can see if you are comfortable with how they run their sales.
- Do not throw away anything before meeting with the companies. That “pile of junk” might have more value than you think.
- If you intend to remove any items, let the companies know during the interview process so they can quote you an accurate percentage fee for what they are agreeing to sell for you.
To help you during the interviewing process, here is a list of questions to be sure you ask:
- How many days do you think it will take to set up?
- Is sales tax required to be charged? If so, do you collect it and send it to the correct tax entities?
- Are there fees besides your commission?
- Do you have insurance? What types?
- How long after the sale will I be paid?
- Do you have an appraiser on staff or access to one?
- What is your field of expertise? Antiques, Art, Furniture, etc?
- How many people do you generally have staff a sale like mine?
- How will my home be left after the sale? Broom clean, empty, etc?
- Do you or your employees buy items?
- Do you have a store?
- Do you have a standard contract? Can I have a copy to look over?
- Do you pre-sell or allow people early entry?
- Do you have any sales coming up that I can visit?
- How many days will the sale itself be?
- When would you be able to do the sale?
Make sure you get a written contract with the company you choose, detailing out when the sale will take place, how much they are charging you, and when you will get paid. Make sure to look over the contract before signing so any changes needed are made prior to you agreeing to the terms.
Just remember, the lowest percentage fee is not always the best way to go. A lower percentage fee may not mean you will make more money. Companies with more experience will often be able to sell high value items for more money. As a result you could end up with greater proceeds from the sale, even after paying a higher commission.
Hopefully these tips and questions will help you in selecting an estate sale company and to have the best possible experience from your sale.
Visit our local vendors page for a list of estate sale companies in the New Orleans area.
