Frequently Asked Questions

EMJ Estate Sales is a premier, all-American service provider dedicated to helping clients seamlessly sell their personal property. We specialize in estates of all sizes, from single high-value items to entire eight-bedroom homes. Our experienced team and comprehensive approach ensure a stress-free process tailored to your specific needs.

Our all-inclusive 35% service fee covers:

• Personalized consultation
• Expert staging and pricing
• Professional staffing
• Sales management
• Detailed inventory report
• Sale completion
• A two-week online consignment option for unsold items

Additionally, we proudly partner with a veteran-owned company to provide efficient estate cleanout services.

At EMJ Estate Sales, we handle every detail so you can focus on what matters most.

We perform a comprehensive evaluation of your personal property and develop a customized sales strategy tailored to your needs. Our team manages every aspect of the process, from organizing and pricing items to strategic marketing and executing the sale, ensuring a seamless and efficient experience from start to finish. 

 EMJ Estate Sales operates on a 35% commission of the total sale. We offer a complimentary initial consultation to assess your needs and provide tailored solutions. Additionally, cleanout services are available upon request for a seamless estate transition. 

 No, EMJ Estate Sales does not provide early pricing. To ensure fairness and equal opportunity for all customers, pricing is only disclosed during the actual sale. 

Clients have multiple options for managing unsold items. We offer in-house consignment, online sales, online auctions, donations, off-site consignment, and salvage options.

For higher-value items, clients may choose to consign them through our online storefront, while less expensive or bulky items can be donated or salvaged. All of these options are available as part of the cleanout service [separate fee] for a seamless estate transition.

Yes, we can liquidate cars and farm equipment separate or as a part of an estate sale.  

Recommended Timeline for Estate Sales

For the most seamless and successful experience, we recommend a three-month preparation period before the sale. This allows ample time to:

• Organize and determine which      items to keep
• Select the ideal sale date
• Sell high-value jewelry and      collectibles online before the in-house sale
• Coordinate with family      members, if needed, regarding item selection

Please Note:

While we have successfully organized sales within 30 days of consultation, the three-month timeline provides the most efficient and stress-free process for our clients.

Security and Crowd Management

Yes, a security team can be arranged upon request to ensure a safe and organized sale.

During the staging process, EMJ Estate Sales will implement controlled traffic flow, designating a single entry and exit point. Additionally, based on the size of the home, we will establish a customer capacity limit to maintain a secure and comfortable shopping environment.

Understanding Estate Sale Pricing

It is important to note that estate sale pricing differs significantly from online retail pricing, which can sometimes come as a surprise to clients with different expectations.

Unlike online sales, estate sales typically run for 2-3 days, during which an entire home's contents must be sold to onsite buyers. As a result, pricing is strategically set to attract resellers, collectors, and the local community, many of whom may later resell items online.

At EMJ Estate Sales, we are experienced and skilled liquidators. Our pricing strategy is based on a comprehensive database of past sales, combined with thorough research of antiques and unique items to ensure accurate and competitive market valuations.

 Payments are processed within five business days after the sale concludes 

Yes, an inventory report will be provided with final payment. 

Marketing and Advertising Strategy

EMJ offers a variety of marketing options to maximize the visibility of your sale. Our strategy may include advertising to a national audience through platforms such as Live Auctioneers, EstateSales.net, Facebook, Instagram, local community groups, and our official EMJ website.

No, please do not discard any items before the sale. Our team will handle all sorting and discarding during the staging process.

Many clients are often surprised by what sells and what doesn’t. Items such as half-used cleaning supplies, toilet paper, old clothing, tools, books, dishes, and shoes are among our best sellers. Smaller items can quickly add up to significant profits.

Bottom line: Let us manage the sorting process for you to maximize the value of your estate sale.

The footwear policy will depend on the home environment. On rainy or snowy days, we provide protective boot covers (booties) and/or flip-flops for customers as needed. In some cases, customers may be asked to remove their shoes, either at the homeowner's request or if necessary to preserve the condition of the home.