Hiring guide

Hire a professional estate sale company

A professional estate sale company prices, stages, advertises and runs the sale, then clears what's left, for a share of what sells. Here's what "professional" should mean, how to compare estate sale companies near you, and a free way to get three to call you.

See estate sale prices · Estate sale companies near you

Only shared with the companies you choose, never published. A ZIP code alone works too.

What makes an estate sale company professional

Anyone can print a sign that says estate sale. A professional estate sale company can show you five things before you sign:

  1. Liability insuranceHundreds of strangers will walk through the house. Ask for the certificate, not a promise.
  2. A written contractCommission, minimum, included services, dates, and who handles unsold items, all on paper.
  3. A recent settlement statementRedacted, from a past client. It shows how they report sales by day and what they deduct.
  4. References from the last six monthsNot from years ago. The industry changes hands often.
  5. A pricing method they can explainHow they research values, when they bring in a specialist, and whether you can set reserves.

How to compare estate sale companies

Don't compare on commission alone. A company at 40 percent that sells 15,000 dollars of goods leaves you more than one at 30 percent that sells 10,000. Compare the whole proposal: expected gross, commission, minimum, extra fees, and days to an empty house. Our estate sale prices guide walks through the numbers.

Is a professional estate sale the right route?

Estate sale

A company prices everything, runs a two or three day sale at the house, and clears what doesn't sell. Best for full homes with a mix of everyday and valuable items.

Auction

Items go to an auction house or an online timed auction. Best when there are a few high-value pieces and the rest is minor.

Donate and haul away

When the contents won't cover the cost of a sale. Fastest, but nothing comes back to the estate.

Full comparison of the three routes · Preparing the house for an estate sale company

Three ways to find estate sale companies near you

Common questions

What is a professional estate sale company?

A company that runs estate sales as a business: insured, working under a written contract, pricing from research, staffing the sale, and issuing a settlement statement afterwards. Most charge 30 to 45 percent of gross sales.

How do I find estate sale companies near me?

Second Gems will introduce up to three vetted companies that serve your ZIP code, free. You can also browse the directory by region, or ask the probate attorney or agent handling the property.

How long does it take?

Most companies need one to three weeks to set up, then two or three sale days. Book early if you have a closing date.

Do I have to be there?

No. Most families prefer not to be. The company handles everything and sends a settlement statement afterwards.

What if I'm out of state?

Very common. Companies work from a key and a phone call. Just tell us in the form.

Is Second Gems free for me?

Yes. Companies pay us a small referral fee when they accept an introduction. It never comes off your settlement.