Estate Sale Options

Dear Phyllis,
I’ve been a longtime reader
of your column and always
appreciate your real estate
insights. My aunt recently
passed away and I’m now
responsible for selling her home.
I contacted the Realtor who
initially helped her purchase
the property to discuss listing it
and asked for a referral for an
estate sale professional.

The vendors I’ve spoken with
have said there’s not much
demand for her furnishing
style. I prefer to avoid the
hassle of a garage sale and am
hesitant to spend a fortune
to have everything hauled
away. However, many of her
belongings — such as furniture,
linens, and kitchenware — could
still be helpful to someone.

Do you have any suggestions
on handling this part of the
process efficiently?

— Amy

Dear Amy,
Thank you for being a loyal
reader. You’ve raised a common
issue. Most estate sales don’t
bring in much unless the
home has collectibles or trendy
items like mid-century modern
furniture. Without that,
turnout and profits can be low.
Still, hauling everything to
the dump would be a waste.
Many of your aunt’s belongings
could be useful to others. Here
are a few ideas:
First, try offering the estate
sale company 100% of the
profits. This may make the job
worth their time and save you
clean-out costs.

Next, consider asking your
Realtor if they know someone
who could run a garage sale.
Letting them keep the proceeds
might motivate them to handle
everything for you.

Finally, think about donating.
Local women’s shelters (like
the YWCA) often help families
furnish new homes. The
Ronald McDonald House might
need linens and kitchenware.
Habitat for Humanity may also
accept furniture and household
items.

In short, there are ways
to clear the house without
spending a fortune — and
helping others simultaneously.

Best of luck to you on the sale.
Warm regards,

Phyllis