Fees

Estate sale commission is typically figured using a combination of factors that reflect the size, complexity, and value of the estate. Common elements include:

1. Total Sales Volume
The primary basis is the gross revenue generated during the sale. Commissions are usually a percentage of total sales, commonly ranging from 25% to 45%.

2. Type and Quality of Inventory
Estates with high-value antiques, collectibles, fine jewelry, or artwork may qualify for a lower commission, while estates with mostly household goods or low-demand items may require a higher rate.

3. Amount of Labor Required
Large homes, heavy clutter, extensive sorting, cleaning, pricing, and staging increase labor costs and can raise the commission percentage.

4. Time on Site
Sales requiring multiple days of setup or extended sale days often justify a higher commission.

5. Advertising and Marketing Costs
Professional photography, online listings, email marketing, signage, and paid ads may be included in the commission or billed separately, affecting the overall rate.

6. Staffing Needs
The number of workers needed for setup, sale days, and cleanup directly impacts commission calculations.

7. Sale Duration
One-day sales typically cost less than multi-day sales due to reduced staffing and overhead.

8. Clean-Out and Disposal Services
If the company handles post-sale clean-out, donation coordination, or trash removal, these services may increase the commission or be charged separately.

9. Location and Accessibility
Remote locations, limited parking, stairs, or restricted access can raise operational costs and affect commission rates.

10. Risk Assumed by the Company
Estate sale companies often front labor and marketing costs with no guarantee of profit, which is factored into their commission.

Together, these factors determine a fair commission that balances the estate’s value with the work and risk assumed by the estate sale company.