Estate Sales are a Treasure Hunt!

School is out, the summer solstice is here and it's time to hit the road! Whether you are planning simple day trips or longer vacations, there is always so much to see, explore and do in our region, around our country or around the world. Recently, I interviewed Jim Quiter who owns Winney Auction & Appraisal based in the Monadnock Region for some great tips to share. Jim's specialty is estate work. Have you ever been to an estate sale? If not, here's some great insight on them from one of our region's estate sale gurus. Here's what you can expect whether you drive by an estate sale sign and decide to pull in, or if you decide to research sales to attend in the near future. First and foremost, "do not be intimidated," said Jim. Folks who run the sales are friendly and courteous and politeness is key; they are there to help you in many ways. You will find reasonable prices at an estate sale because the goal is to liquidate the contents for the family. If you arrive early on the first day of the sale before it starts, you will find a line. Either put a chair in your space or a box or bag (many people do this, and then go sit in their vehicles until it starts). The beginning of the sale is very busy. If you come later the first day (most sales are two to three days) you will find it a bit quieter. Always be respectful of the home you are at. Sometimes there will be a bathroom available to use, other times not. Homes vary in contents, style and cleanliness. Some homes may have sat vacant for a period of time so always bring some hand sanitizer for after. Cash is king! Although, many sales will accept local checks or PayPal, Venmo, etc. its best to stop at the ATM beforehand. If you plan on purchasing large items, have your wallet flush with cash and bring someone along for the experience if you'll need help loading. During estate sales you may see items you've never seen before; it's the thrill of the hunt! There can be lots of digging and opening boxes. Many times, you'll see people making piles in the yard or driveway. Please respect these piles! It definitely behooves you to ask if you can make a pile and receive a bulk price when you go to pay. You will for sure, get a better deal on things at an estate sale then at a local shop because this is where dealers go to find their items before marking them up to resell. Sound exciting and enticing? Look for one near you! You can find sales listed on Facebook, Craigslist, newspapers and other online platforms. And, if you see a sign while you are out on your road trip pull in! Have an amazing summer looking for treasures. Kari Lindstrom owns the popular vintage shop in Jaffrey, NH called The Melamine Cup which opened in 2013. She is past board member of The Jaffrey Chamber of Commerce and has a professional background in career counseling.