Choosing the Right Estate Sale Format in Connecticut: In-Person vs. Online Auctions

Having an estate sale in Connecticut is a popular way to liquidate the contents of an estate, downsize in preparation for a move, or sell a valuable collection of items. Connecticut’s prime location, nestled between Boston and New York City, attracts a diverse pool of buyers eager to shop at estate sales.

At Sundown Modern Vintage and Estate Sales, LLC, we pride ourselves on tailoring our services to meet each client’s unique needs. One of the first steps we take is helping our clients decide between a traditional in-person estate sale or an online auction. Each option has its benefits and challenges, and our role is to guide you toward the most effective solution for your specific situation.

Traditional In-Person Estate Sales

How They Work:
In-person estate sales are typically held over 2–3 days, during which customers visit the residence at designated hours to browse and purchase pre-priced items. These sales are ideal for homes containing a large quantity of basic household goods, such as:

• Kitchenware

• Garden and hand tools

• Furniture

• Clothing

• Miscellaneous home essentials

Advantages:

• Efficient for Common Goods: When priced correctly, basic household items sell quickly, making this format a practical choice for clearing out large volumes of items.

• Fast Turnaround: With proper pricing and preparation, most items are sold within the sale period.

Challenges:

• Limited Audience: Only those who attend the sale in person can view and purchase items.

• Labor Intensive: Setting up the sale, managing customers, and handling payments require significant time and effort.

• Safety Concerns: Allowing strangers into your home can increase risks of theft, breakage, and property damage.

• Payment Options: Cash is typically the primary payment method, which may not appeal to all buyers.

How We Help:
At Sundown Modern Vintage and Estate Sales, we take extra precautions to ensure in-person sales are smooth and secure. We maintain a detailed written record of all items sold, including the final price, so clients have complete transparency.

Online Estate Sale Auctions

How They Work:
Online estate sale auctions expand your reach to a much larger audience. For example, in 2024 alone, our online auctions received 88,400 views and 12,400 bids! This increased exposure not only generates more interest but also creates bidding competition, ultimately driving up the prices of your items.

Online auctions typically run for 7–8 days, giving buyers the flexibility to bid from the comfort of their homes at any time.

Advantages:

• Broader Reach: Online platforms attract local, national, and even international buyers, significantly increasing your audience.

• Higher Returns: Competitive bidding often results in higher sale prices.

• Convenience: Buyers can browse and bid on items 24/7 without attending a physical sale.

• Enhanced Security: Online auctions limit the number of strangers entering your home, reducing the risk of theft or damage. Registered bidders must provide state-issued identification and invoices for item pickup.

• Shipping Options: Online estate auctions further broaden the customer base by offering shipping. In 2024, we shipped fragile items such as fine China, Pyrex, an antique violin, and vinyl records to over 25 states. This additional service attracts buyers nationwide who might not otherwise participate.

• Transparency: All transactions are conducted electronically, allowing us to provide clients with a detailed spreadsheet of items sold and their final prices. Clients receive a check reflecting the total sales amount, minus our commission.

Client Feedback:
Many clients appreciate the transparency and enjoy reviewing the provided spreadsheet. Knowing exactly what was sold and for how much gives them peace of mind and confidence in the process.

Which Option Is Right for You?

The choice between a traditional in-person sale and an online auction depends on several factors, including the types of items being sold, your timeline, and your comfort level with hosting an event in your home. At Sundown Modern Vintage and Estate Sales, LLC, we offer free consultations to help you determine the best approach for your unique situation.

If you’re considering an estate sale in Connecticut, call us at 203-577-9275. We’re here to guide you through every step of the process with professionalism, empathy, and integrity.