We’re in prime estate sale season and if you haven’t been to an estate sale, you’re missing out. From big furniture to little decorative accessories, estate sales are great sources for affordable finds. A couple of months ago I went to one that was amazing–lots of barely used designer furniture. Like any good sale seeker, I went in with my eye on some key items from the sale: a pair of Mitchell Gold wing back chairs with nail head trim…
…a mirrored dresser and matching bedside tables…
…a large painting of a horse…
Unfortunately I didn’t follow my critical tip below (get there early!) and was #68 in line and by the time I got in the sale, my wish list items were gone. I did, however, manage to snag a fun find–a huge (I’m talking HUGE) sunburst mirror for $100 that found a place in my dining room.
While this sale isn’t necessarily the norm (you do have to kiss a lot of frogs before you find a prince!) a few simple tips will help you find some great treasures this summer.
- Sign up for notification of sales. Estatesales.net is a great resource where you can sign up to receive emails about sales in your area, but you can also check out Craig’s List and your local paper. I sign up for daily feeds so that if I see something come across that looks promising, I can plan accordingly (i.e. line up a babysitter because my number one tip is do NOT bring your kids to these things.)
- Make sure the sale is actually worth your time. Just because a sale is titled “regal” doesn’t mean it’s actually that way and you can generally tell from a quick look at the photos. You can also make your wish list from the photos.
- GET THERE EARLY! Most estate sales involve taking a number (often knocking on the door and they’ll give you one.) They then allow a certain number of people in at a time. For a good sale, you’ll see people coming 2-3 hours prior to opening. And don’t think that a Friday sale will mean it will be less crowded than Saturday.
- Bring your measurements and any sample fabrics, paint chips, etc. You’ll often need to make quick decisions so be prepared. I would also recommend bringing your own tape measure because it’s often hard to find someone to help you on site.
- Don’t hesitate. At a recent sale, I was standing before a beautiful cowhide rug humming and hahing about the price and suddenly someone came sweeping in and took it front right under my nose. If you’re interested, grab the item or tag that’s on the item and hold onto it while you continue looking around. Ok, I know that’s annoying for others so be kind and only take the tag if you’re 95% sure…and put it back if you decide against the item.
- Bring cash. Nothing kills a negotiation more than “Glad we agreed to a price, do you take credit cards?”
- Bring a friend with a big car. This person can act as a sounding board (or an obstacle to purchasing real junk!) and can help you get the items in your car.
Happy hunting! Here are a few sales that look pretty interesting where you could test the tips. For our Iowa readers, I don’t see anything big right now, but will post if I do!
Chicago Chicago (love the mid century modern rocker!)
Charlotte (I’d have my eye on the dresser with marble top–great for an entry!)
Once I found a Moroccan rugs for $1., small Persians for $5., but you are right –be VERY selective!