Rules and Regulations of Estate Sales
The estate sale industry is unique in the fact that it is not regulated by any centralized governing body. This means that each estate sale company is responsible for establishing its own rules and regulations. While there is some variation from company to company, there are some common rules and regulations that most estate sale companies follow.
Contracts
Most estate sale companies will require you to sign a contract before they will agree to host your sale. This contract will outline the terms of the sale, including the company’s commission, the services that will be provided, and the responsibilities of both the company and the client.
Commission
Estate sale companies typically earn their commission by charging a percentage of the total sales made at your sale. Many companies charge additional fees for mileage, marketing, trash hauling, and the optional “cleanout” which varies between $400-$5,000+. The commission rate itself can vary from company to company, but in Atlanta it is typically between 35%-50%.
As a B-Corp, Sara has the fiduciary duty to do whatever is in the best interest of her clients – not strictly what profits are in the company’s pockets. Sara works purely off a commission basis, with no hidden fees- and the charitable cleanout is also at no additional fee! We will not leave you with a bunch of junk to deal with. This is part of our standard practices.
Discounts
Most estate sale companies have guidelines in place for what staff can and cannot allow as far as discounts at estate sales. Some companies may allow staff to negotiate discounts on certain items, while others may prohibit discounts altogether. It is important to ask the estate sale company about their discount policy before the sale begins.
Conduct policies
Estate sale companies have rules in place to ensure the safety and security of everyone involved in the sale. These rules may include things like:
- Shoppers must be respectful to staff and other shoppers.
- Estate sale companies have the right to refuse service to anyone.
- All sales are final.
- Everything is sold in “as-is” condition.
Payment guidelines
Most estate sale companies accept cash, credit cards, and debit cards. Some companies may also accept other forms of payment, such as Apple Pay, Samsung Pay, and Venmo.
Having clients attend their own sales
Most estate sale companies do not recommend that clients attend their own sales. This is because it can be emotionally difficult for clients to see their belongings being sold. Additionally, having the client on-site can hinder the success of the sale by distracting the staff and shoppers.
Marketing
Estate sale companies use a variety of marketing techniques to get the word out about their sales. Some common marketing techniques include:
- Online listings
- Social media
- Print advertising
- Word-of-mouth
If you are considering hiring an estate sale company, it is important to do your research and ask questions about the company’s rules and regulations. This will help you to choose a company that is a good fit for your needs and that will help you to achieve your goals for the sale.
