Everything you need to know about estate sales, from FAQs to helpful guides and industry insights.
Our standard commission is a percentage of the total sale proceeds, typically ranging from 30-40% depending on the size and complexity of the estate. This covers all services including consultation, inventory, appraisal, marketing, and sale management. We discuss our fee structure during the free initial consultation and provide a clear, written agreement before any work begins.
From initial consultation to final settlement, most estate sales take 3-5 weeks. This includes 2 weeks for preparation and staging, 2-3 days for the actual sale, and 1-2 weeks for post-sale activities and settlement. However, timelines can be adjusted based on your specific needs and circumstances.
We work with you to determine the best approach for unsold items. Options include: donating to local charities, consigning valuable items to specialty dealers, schedule an additional sale day, or arranging for responsible disposal and recycling.
Our pricing strategy is based on extensive market research, comparable sales data, current market trends, and our years of experience. We consider factors such as condition, rarity, demand, and local market conditions. For significant items, we may consult with specialists or auction results. Our goal is to price items competitively to sell while maximizing your return.
Yes, Atomic Attic Estate Sales is fully insured and bonded for your protection. We carry comprehensive liability insurance and all team members undergo background checks. We treat your property and possessions with the utmost care and security, and maintain detailed documentation throughout the process.
We primarily serve Genesee, Oakland, Macomb and Livingston counties. However, we consider larger estates outside our typical service area on a case-by-case basis. Contact us to discuss your specific location and we’ll let you know if we can accommodate your needs.
Absolutely! We have experience with a wide variety of specialty items including antiques, fine art, jewelry, musical instruments, tools, books, collectibles, and more. For items requiring specialized knowledge, we consult with experts in those fields to ensure accurate appraisals and pricing. Large collections are one of our specialties.
We use a comprehensive multi-channel marketing approach including: professional photography and detailed listings on our website, promotion through social media platforms, email notifications to our subscriber list (thousands of regular buyers), listings on popular estate sale websites, local newspaper advertising, and signage. We tailor our marketing strategy to attract buyers interested in your specific items.
You will receive your proceeds within 5 business days after the sale concludes. This allows time for all payments to clear, final accounting to be completed, and any post-sale activities to be finalized. You’ll receive a detailed report showing all sales, expenses, and your net proceeds, along with a check or direct deposit.
Let our experienced team guide you through every step of the estate sale process with professionalism and care.