Quick answer
To have an estate sale, first remove everything family wants to keep, then decide whether to run it yourself or hire an estate sale company. Sort and price items, set dates, advertise, plan for security and payment, run the sale, and arrange donation or cleanout for what's left. Companies usually take a commission but handle the work. (800) 614-8388 for help near Kansas City.
Last updated October 9, 2026Costs are published medians or typical ranges with a named source, never quotes. Every community and agency prices differently.
Step by step
- Take out what the family is keeping. Lock it away or remove it.
- Find important papers and valuables. Search drawers, pockets and books.
- Decide: DIY or a company. See how to choose an estate sale company.
- Sort and stage. Group similar items; clean them up.
- Price items. Research sold prices for similar items; get special items appraised.
- Pick dates. Many sales run over two or three days.
- Advertise with photos online and signs, following local rules.
- Plan security and payment. Limit entry, cover off-limits rooms, have enough helpers, and accept card payments if you can.
- Run the sale. Consider discounts on later days.
- Clear the rest. Donate, sell to a buyer, or book a cleanout.
DIY vs. hiring a company
| Do it yourself | Estate sale company | |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | No commission | Commission on sales, sometimes plus fees |
| Work | You sort, price, staff and clean up | They handle most of it |
| Pricing knowledge | Depends on you | Usually experienced |
| Best for | Smaller homes, plenty of time and helpers | Full homes, valuable items, short timelines |
See estate sale company costs.
Before you start, check
- Whether your city or HOA has rules for sales, signs or parking.
- Whether the home sale or a move date limits your timeline.
- Who has authority to sell the items, if the owner has died or can't act.
Planning an estate sale?
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Questions families ask
How do I price items for an estate sale?
Look up sold prices for similar items, and get special items appraised.
How long does an estate sale last?
Many run two or three days.
Should I hire an estate sale company?
If the house is full, items are valuable or time is short, a company can save a lot of work.
What happens to leftover items?
Donate them, sell them to a buyer, or book a cleanout.