FAQs
What is your process?
We begin with a complimentary, no-obligation meeting. If you choose Best Mates Estates, we dive into tailor-making your sale. We meticulously sort, organize, display, research, price, and market your treasures. We'll blast the news to our subscribers and several online platforms. During the sale, you'll spot our signs guiding eager buyers our way. We conduct business with utmost professionalism, treating your home and belongings with respect. Once the sale wraps up, we handle the clear out, reconcile, and distribute your proceeds.
From start to finish, how long does this take?
This can vary a lot based on the size of the estate and the schedule availability for both parties. Typically we can get a sale on the books within 4-8 weeks, sometimes sooner. From there, set up and advertising takes about 2 weeks. After the sale, it typically takes about two days to complete the clear-out.
How do you charge for your services?
We operate on a percentage of the total estate sales gross, aligning our success with yours. Each sale is unique, so we tailor our percentage based on various factors like sale size, location, and items involved. We'll discuss all this during our complimentary in-home consultation.
What payment do you accept?
We accept cash and all major credit cards.
How fast am I paid after the sale?
We understand the importance of a speedy payout. Once the sale has ended and the clear-out has been completed, a final accounting including all sales, charitable donations, and expense receipts will be sent within 7 days. Once approved, a payout will be initiated the following business day.
Do you sell jewelry, Sterling silverware, fine art, vehicles, and other expensive items?
Absolutely! These gems often shine brightest at our sales, drawing in eager buyers. We'll never pressure you into selling items you're hesitant about, but including them can significantly boost interest in your sale.
Do you work with realtors?
We're very realtor-friendly! Many real estate professionals love teaming up with us to enhance property sales and work quickly to get the home on the market. We also have stong references to local realtors should you need one.
What should I throw away?
Hold off on the toss! Let's chat first. The saying "one man's trash is another man's treasure" rings true. We'll help unearth the hidden value in items you might've overlooked.
What do you do with the items that are removed after the sale?
This very much depends on what items are left over. We will pack up and sort items based on their final destination. Most items get donated. We do our best to work with local charities to have the greatest impact (IE Portland’s many tool libraries, the Community Warehouse, NW Furniture Bank, SCRAP, Free Geek, etc).
Items that cannot be donated will be recycled if possible or otherwise disposed of (ie ripped clothing, broken items, old electronics, etc).
Why should I hire an Estate Sale Professional?
Bringing on an estate professional should feel like a weight lifted off your shoulders! Estate sales are our specialty, not just a glorified garage sale. We're here to fetch the best price for your items while minimizing the number of items left at the end. We work to ensure a stress-free process. Sit back, relax, and let us handle the intricate details.
Can I be in the house while you are setting up the sale?
While we appreciate your input, these sales can bring up unexpected emotions. We need the space to work our magic without interruptions. We work hard to treat all items in the estate with respect and honor their real and sentimental value. We kindly request you steer clear during the setup, pricing, selling, and cleanout stages.
How do you advertise?
We craft a tailored campaign to draw in the perfect crowd for your sale. Think email blasts, website listings, social media hype, and strategic online placements. Plus, eye-catching signage ensures everyone knows where to find us.
How do you charge for your services?
We operate on a percentage of the total estate sales gross, aligning our success with yours. Each sale is unique, so we tailor our percentage based on various factors like sale size, location, and items involved. We'll discuss all this during our complimentary in-home consultation.
How do you know how to price my items?
Best Mates Estates has two decades of experience working with resellers. We meticulously inventory and price all items to be sold during the estate sale leveraging our extensive experience, researching price comparisons, and adjusting based on current trends. We carefully balance pricing to garner the best price and minimize the amount of items left over at the end of the sale.
How do you know how to price my items?
Best Mates Estates has two decades of experience working with resellers. We meticulously inventory and price all items to be sold during the estate sale leveraging our extensive experience, researching price comparisons, and adjusting based on current trends. We carefully balance pricing to garner the best price and minimize the amount of items left over at the end of the sale.
Are you licensed & insured?
Absolutely! We're licensed in the state of Oregon and carry comprehensive insurance coverage for your peace of mind.
How do we inform the neighbors of the sale?
Best Mates Estates will work to contact your neighbors to inform them of the sale dates and times. We will also provide our contact information should any issues arise during the sale.