Estate Sales
One thing to know about me, I don’t like not knowing the routine. The first time I ordered a Chipotle was torture. So the thought of just walking up to an estate sale got my blood pumping. As an avid thrifter I knew an estate sale could lead to some good finds, so I started doing my research. My first question was how do you find out about them ahead of time? The best resource I have found is estatesales.net. If you are in the DMV area I also highly recommend Maddy Brannon (@maddytheb on instagram). She sends an email every Wednesday with her take on the best sales in the area. She has never steered me wrong.
After weeks of checking estatesales.net and reading over Maddy’s weekly list, I found an estate sale I had to go to. It was in Alexandria (where I live) and had tons of authenticated artwork. I was going. It started on a Friday, so I decided to go on my lunch break. I figured there would be no one there, it was a weekday. I was wrong. The sale was packed, people were moving in all directions grabbing price tags off of things and rushing to pay. I managed to score a beautiful portrait. I also learned a lot! Here are five things I learned below.
If there is something you have to have, you need to be one of the first people in line. Get there at least an hour early. Check online ahead of time to see what the system will be. There may be a sign in sheet or you may need to text someone ahead of time to get on the list.
Check the description online for the rules and forms of payment. Some sales only take cash, some don’t let you bring in bags.
Be prepared for resellers. There will be people there shopping for their antique stores or booths. They will know the system and can be a bit “pushy”. If you start frequenting sales in your area you will recognize them.
Take a friend. It's nice to have a partner looking out for something you want ready to grab it, or to have someone help you carry your items.
Don’t be afraid to go on the last day. The sale might be picked through but there is usually some percentage off. It is always great to find something on sale.
I of course am including some of my finds!
My first estate sale purchase…
My Setter…
This coffee table that sits in our front room…
And of course my Hermes scarf!
I hope this helps you understand the routine!
