Educational Information Only: EstateSalen provides general educational information about probate, estate sales, cleanouts, downsizing, inherited property, and real estate transition services. EstateSalen is not a law firm and does not provide legal, tax, financial, or real estate brokerage advice. Always confirm requirements with the appropriate court, licensed attorney, tax professional, financial advisor, or licensed real estate professional.
How EstateSalen Helps
Maximize Returns
Estate sales typically net more than garage sales for large volumes
What to Sell
Furniture, collectibles, tools, kitchen items, and more
Timeline
Most companies can organize a sale within 2–4 weeks
Prepare the Home
How to prepare for a successful sale
Step-by-Step Process
Decide what you're keeping
Separate items you're taking to your new home before the estate sale company arrives to organize.
Contact estate sale companies
Get 2–3 quotes. Companies typically charge 25–40% commission of gross sales.
Prepare and clean items
Items in better condition sell for more. Wipe down furniture, gather sets together, find original boxes for electronics.
Set aside sentimental items
Clearly mark anything that is not for sale. Communicate this to the estate sale company.
Allow the company to run the sale
A good estate sale company handles pricing, advertising, setup, and staffing. Trust the process.
Arrange donation/cleanout for what remains
Most companies offer to help clear remaining items after the sale for an additional fee.
Find Your State Guide
Select your state for local resources, court information, and provider referrals.
Find an Estate Sale Company Near You
Tell us your state and situation and we'll connect you with local estate sale professionals.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between a garage sale and an estate sale?
Estate sale companies handle everything — pricing, advertising, setup, and sales — and typically achieve higher prices for quality items. Garage sales are DIY and better for small volumes of common items.
How much do estate sale companies charge?
Typically 25–40% of gross sales. Confirm with local companies.