The best time for an estate sale is after it is approved by a court administrator. Even better is when an estate sale is granted as a probate avoidance technique under a trust document. Choosing the optimal time to host an event to rid you of a family member’s personal property is hard.
Luckily, there are opportunities to maximize your success. For some., this means utilizing Facebook Marketplace. For those who are new to this, maybe timing is more important.
Again, assuming a court or trust document has already granted a family authority to begin an estate sale, several factors come into play when determining the best time.
Factors to Consider
One key aspect to consider is the season. Late spring and early fall are generally considered the ideal seasons for estate sales. During these times, the weather is often milder, encouraging more people to venture out and attend sales. Additionally, individuals tend to be more active in decluttering and refreshing their homes during these transitional seasons, making it an opportune time for selling.
Weekends are typically preferred over weekdays for estate sales. Saturday is popular because it allows potential buyers to allocate more time to explore the sale without the constraints of work obligations. Sunday can also be a viable option, although some people may have religious or family commitments.
If possible, schedule the estate sale around other garage sale events. One of my favorite events all year long is Woodbury’s Lion’s Garage Sale. Of course, most estate administrations needs are without notice, but you get the point.
Also, avoid scheduling the event during major holidays or local events that could divert potential buyers’ attention elsewhere. Holidays often mean people are engaged in family gatherings or other activities, reducing the likelihood of attendance. Additionally, checking the local calendar for community events, festivals, or large-scale activities is essential.
Again, the best time to have an estate sale is typically during the spring or fall, on a weekend, preferably a Saturday, avoiding major holidays or local events. Being mindful of the local market conditions and economic factors will also contribute to a successful administration of your loved one’s property.