What I Learned From My First Estate Sale
(Estate Sale Tips for Beginners + Frugal Home Design Inspiration)
What I Learned From My First Estate Sale
This weekend, I went to my very first estate sale—and it was a whole experience. While I didn’t buy anything (more on that later), I walked away with so much more than just shopping tips. I got a peek into a beautifully curated home, a deeper understanding of how estate sales work, and a fresh reminder that timeless style outlasts every trend.
Whether you’re hoping to score a vintage treasure or just curious about how estate sales compare to thrifting, here’s what I learned—and what I’d do differently next time.
1. Prepare Ahead—There’s a Rhythm to Estate Sales
Estate sales may seem casual, but there’s an unspoken order to how they work. Here’s what I noted while I was there:
- Arrive early. If the sale looks like it’s gonna be good, there’s gonna be a long line. Lines are allowed to form up to hour before the doors open.
- Numbers matter. Officials from the company running the sale will give out number and each number holds only one place in line. So make sure everyone grabs their own number.
- Research the company. Look them up ahead of time to learn what types of payment they accept. The one I attended took credit cards and checks up to $300—but not debit cards.
- Bring your own bag. A sturdy tote or basket will help you for small finds so you don’t have to set them down in the holding area.
- Use “SOLD” tags—but come prepared. There are usually “sold” stickers or tags available to mark any large item that you want to claim. They were pretty sensitive about their pens so you probably wanna bring your own. I noticed some people in line pre-filling out their sold tags so they could save time if they found an item that was in high demand.
2. Expect Higher Prices Than Thrift Stores
Be prepared for possible sticker shock. I found the prices to be much higher than thrift stores, even with their rising prices. I would say the places were in line with an upscale antique mall. But in fairness, the quality matched the price. It appeared the homeowner of this estate sale had really high end taste and had been collecting interesting pieces for decades.
3. Prices Drop Each Day of the Sale
Estate sales typically span two or three days, with discounts as the sale progresses. I attended on the last day, and everything was 50% off—which made some items more accessible, though the best pieces were already spoken for.
Pro tip:
If you want the best selection, go on the first day. If you’re hoping for better prices, risk waiting until the last.
4. Use the Holding Area With Caution
Estate sales often have a “hold” table where you can set items aside while you continue browsing. Sounds convenient, right? Dont be too confident:
- Items in the holding area aren’t always safe.
- If someone buys something you were holding, there’s usually nothing the organizers can or care to do.
- I’ve heard stories of items disappearing or being resold—so place items there at your own risk.
5. The Experience Alone Is Worth It
Even though I didn’t bring anything home, I left with so much inspiration—and that’s enough frugal fun for me. Here’s what I gained:
- A private home tour. Estate sales let you wander through beautiful homes you wouldn’t normally get to see.
- An eye for quality. It was great practice in training my eye to spot well-made, timeless pieces—a skill that helps me thrift smarter.
- A reminder of what matters in design. This home hadn’t been updated in 20–25 years, but it didn’t feel tired. It felt warm, lived-in, and beautiful. When you decorate with things you love, you don’t need to constantly redecorate.
Final Thoughts
I definitely plan to go to more estate sales in the future—maybe even on the first day next time. But I’m still not sure I’ll buy anything. Sometimes the best part is just soaking in the inspiration, dreaming up ideas, and enjoying the beauty of a well-loved home.
And that, my friend, is the heart of frugal decorating:
You don’t always have to buy something to feel more at home.