Estate Sale vs Consignment
Selling Methods
Compare estate sales and consignment as methods for selling antiques, including timeline, effort, fees, and which approach yields better results for different situations.
Comparison Table
| Feature | Estate Sale | Consignment |
|---|---|---|
| Commission Rate | 25-50% of total sales revenue | 25-50% per item, varies by shop |
| Timeline | Typically 1-3 day event; setup takes 1-2 weeks | Items may sit for 30-90 days before selling |
| Seller Effort | Estate sale company handles everything on-site | You deliver items; shop handles display and sale |
| Price Control | Estate sale company prices items; often discounted on final day | You typically agree on a price with the shop owner |
| Best For | Liquidating an entire household quickly | Selling select high-quality pieces at optimal prices |
Key Differences
- ●Estate sales liquidate an entire household in a matter of days, while consignment focuses on selling individual items over weeks or months.
- ●Estate sale companies price aggressively to move everything, often discounting 25-50% on the final day, which may undervalue quality antiques.
- ●Consignment shops curate their inventory and market to targeted buyers, which can yield higher prices for quality pieces but takes longer.
- ●With an estate sale, unsold items become your problem to donate or dispose of; with consignment, unsold items are simply returned to you.
When to Choose Estate Sale
- ✓You need to empty an entire home quickly due to a move, death, or property sale.
- ✓The household contains a mix of antiques, furniture, and everyday items that all need to go.
- ✓You want a hands-off process where the company handles pricing, marketing, and the sale event.
When to Choose Consignment
- ✓You have specific high-value items that deserve individual attention and targeted marketing.
- ✓You are not in a rush and can wait for the right buyer to pay a fair price.
- ✓You want more control over the minimum price you will accept for each item.
- ✓The items are portable enough to deliver to a shop and do not require an on-site sale.
Common Misconceptions
- ⚠Many people assume estate sales are only for estates of deceased persons, but anyone liquidating a large number of household items can hire an estate sale company.
- ⚠Consignment commission rates can be negotiable, especially for high-value items or multiple pieces; always ask about the shop's rate structure before committing.
- ⚠Some estate sale companies charge additional fees for setup, advertising, and cleanup beyond their commission, so read the contract carefully.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I choose a reputable estate sale company?
Look for companies with strong online reviews, membership in professional organizations like the American Society of Estate Liquidators, and a proven track record in your area. Ask for references, review their contract terms, and inquire about their marketing strategy and pricing approach.
What happens to items that do not sell at an estate sale?
This should be clearly outlined in your contract. Some companies will arrange donation to charity, others may offer to buy remaining items at a steep discount, and some simply leave unsold items for you to handle. Negotiate this upfront before signing.
Can I pull high-value items from an estate sale and consign them separately?
Yes, and this is often a smart strategy. Have the entire estate appraised first, then pull items that would benefit from targeted marketing and consign them to specialty dealers or auction houses. Use the estate sale company for the remaining household contents.
Get a Quick First-Pass Appraisal
Valued helps you screen items fast so you can make smarter buying and selling decisions.
Get Valued