Estate Sale Etiquette: Unwritten Rules Every Buyer Should Know

Wait your turn

If there's a line, get in it. Some people try to slip in through the garage or a side door. Don't be that person. We notice, and we'll send you to the back of the line.

Numbers are sometimes handed out before the doors open. If you get a number, that's your spot. No cutting.

Don't lowball on Friday

The first day of a sale is not the time to offer 50% of the sticker price. Prices are firm on Friday. We researched them and set them where they are for a reason.

Saturday afternoon? You can ask. Sunday? Everything's negotiable. That's how the pricing schedule works.

Ask before you open things

Drawers, cabinets, closets. If it's clearly staged and open, browse away. If it's closed, ask first. Some spaces contain personal items the family didn't want included in the sale. Some contain items that are priced but fragile. Just ask.

Don't bring your kids or your dog

I'm sorry. I know that's blunt. But estate sales are in private homes with breakable things on every surface. A toddler in a room full of glassware is a disaster waiting to happen. Same with dogs, even small ones.

Be kind about the stuff

This is someone's home. Maybe someone who recently passed away. The family photos might still be on the walls. Treat the space with respect. Don't make comments about the decor or the smell or the wallpaper. Just shop.

Pay and go

We take cash and cards. We wrap fragile items. For big pieces, we'll help you carry them to your car. If you need to come back with a truck, we'll hold the item for a few hours with a deposit.

How to be a great estate sale buyer

Show up early, know what you're looking for, be polite, and pay fairly. The regulars who do this become our favorite customers and sometimes get a heads-up before sales go public.

Check our upcoming sales and come see what we've got.