Three siblings in Columbus need to empty their late mother’s house within two months so it can be sold. They live in different states and have no idea what her furniture, jewelry, and collectibles are worth. An estate sale company handles pricing, staffing, and cleanup, but choosing the right one makes a big difference.

Estate sale companies organize, price, advertise, and run sales of household contents. Here is how to hire one with confidence.

Step 1: Prepare Before Calling

  • Remove personal papers, photos, and items family members want to keep.
  • Gather appraisals or receipts for valuable items, such as jewelry or art.
  • Decide on a timeline tied to home sale or lease deadlines.
  • Check whether the estate’s executor or court approval is needed.

Step 2: Interview Several Companies

Ask how commissions are calculated, what minimum sale values they require, how items are priced, and how they handle high-value pieces. Ask about staff, security during the sale, insurance, and how payments are reported. Request references from recent clients.

Commission rates vary by region and estate size. Ask what the commission covers, such as advertising, staffing, and cleanup, and what costs are extra.

Step 3: Get Everything in Writing

A written contract should describe commission rates, sale dates, payment timing, accounting reports, what happens to unsold items, and cleanout options. Ask for an itemized sales report after the sale.

Ask whether the company buys items itself. If so, make sure pricing practices are transparent to avoid conflicts of interest.

Protecting the Family During the Sale

Lock away items not for sale, including documents, medications, and keepsakes. Ask how the company manages crowds, prevents theft, and handles valuable items like jewelry, which are often kept in display cases near staff. Consider having a family representative visit at the end of each day, and confirm the home is secured each night.

Ask whether the company photographs items for online previews, which can bring more buyers, and how quickly the final payment arrives after the sale ends.

Step 4: After the Sale

Many companies offer donation, buyout, or cleanout services for remaining items. Confirm how long cleanout takes and whether the home will be left broom-clean for realtors.

Families can compare estate sale and liquidation companies in the shopping and sales section of Info Lion before setting a sale date.

Hire Carefully, Document Everything

Estate sale companies can relieve families of a heavy task when chosen carefully. Prepare personal items and records, interview several companies, compare commissions and services, get everything in writing, and plan for unsold items. Info Lion can help you find estate sale companies nearby.