
Estate sale companies can be a godsend if you’re tasked with liquidating a house full of belongings — whether due to a loved one’s passing, the need to downsize, or other major life changes. These companies specialize in handling everything from pricing to marketing to selling. But how do you know which company to trust? How much do they charge? In this easy-scan guide, we’ll explain how estate sales work, what to expect from estate sale companies, and highlight some of the best companies in the industry.
An estate sale is a professionally managed sale of a home’s contents, typically organized when a homeowner passes away, moves to a new residence, or downsizes significantly. Unlike a yard sale, an estate sale is a structured event where a company prices and sells household items — furniture, artwork, collectibles, and more — inside the home. Buyers walk through, selecting items, often at discounted prices. Some companies specialize in online estate sales while others offer a hybrid model. Sales typically last one to three days, with prices dropping on the final day to clear out the remaining inventory. Estate sale companies take care of everything needed to sell the contents of a home. Their services typically include: Once you hire an estate sale company, they’ll assess the home’s contents and create a sale plan. After sorting and pricing items, they’ll stage the presentation to maximize buyer interest. The sale is typically held over a weekend, with discounted pricing on the last day to clear out any remaining items. Afterward, the company may handle donation pickups or offer cleanout services to leave the home empty or nearly empty. You don’t necessarily need to empty a house before selling it. Your options depend on your situation, the property’s condition, and your selling method. For example: For some, selling a home as-is for cash is the solution they need during a stressful or emotional time, especially for an inherited home located out of state. HomeLight’s Simple Sale platform can connect you with the largest network of trusted cash buyers in the country. Here’s how it works: Your Simple Sale cash offer will also include an estimate of how much a top real estate agent might be able to get for the home. To see both no-obligation options, provide a few details about the home and your selling timeline. Estate sale companies typically charge a commission based on the total sales revenue, which usually ranges from 30% to 50%. Many companies offer lower rates for sales with higher revenue potential. In most cases, the estate sale company will set the commission after evaluating the estate. The percentage you pay depends on factors such as: Some companies may also charge additional fees for services like post-sale cleanouts, appraisals for high-value items, or disposal of unsold belongings. Before signing a contract, review the company’s fee structure to understand how they charge and what’s included.What is an estate sale?
What do estate sale companies do?
How does the estate sale process work?
Do I need to empty a house to sell it?
How much do estate sale companies charge?