Commonly Asked Questions:

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Q: What is an Estate Sale?

An estate sale is held inside the home, rain or shine, with items displayed and priced for sale. Buyers line up prior to the sale, and are let in as space allows. Staff are situated on every floor for security and to answer questions. Depending on the size of the home, a sale is typically one or two days.

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Q: Do I have Enough for a Sale?

We suggest not throwing anything out until you have a professional assess the items in the home. Some items may have more value than you realize. In addition to furniture and other higher priced items, many household goods such as kitchenware, electronics and tools are also sale-able. Items can be antique, vintage or contemporary. Our professional staff can help you decide whether you have enough for a sale, what to keep, what to donate, and what to throw out.

 

Q: How Do I Prepare for a Sale?

It is important that you and/or your family members decide what you will be keeping from the home; those items should be removed or stored prior to the sale (rooms can be cordoned off if needed for storage of these items). This process can sometimes be difficult but necessary to ensure a smooth, successful sale. We are then responsible for all aspects of the sale including pricing, staging, and researching your items to get the best prices possible.

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Q: What Happens to Items that Don’t Sell?

Lower Mills staff can help you determine what to do with unsold items. You can keep the items, put them into a local or online auction, or donate them. We can also arrange for a cleanout service if requested.

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Q: What is the Cost?

We work on commission, so there are no up-front costs. Our commission covers all staffing, advertising, research time, light cleaning and staging. There may be a charge for extra services such as removal of items after the sale or if there is a need for extensive cleaning. Staff will review all these options and costs prior to the sale.

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