How to Hold an Estate Sale Without Family Conflict

An estate sale usually happens when the owner of the property has passed away and the family must dispose of his possessions, or the seller is moving to a smaller home or assisted living. Regardless of the reason, emotions can run high among family members. Some have been promised items, others are attached to family possessions and then there are those who simply feel entitled to certain items.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Make a list beforehand of the items which are assigned by the seller or bequeathed in a will to specific family members. Have those items removed from the property and handed to the rightful owners.
2. Consult with the professional auctioneer or estate sale organizer. Discuss the various options for the sale. Have her meet with the family to discuss the emotional aspects of letting go of family possessions and to suggest ways to avoid conflicts.
3. Price all the items to be sold and then have an "invitation only" sale prior to the public auction. Allow family members and close associates to purchase items for cash when money is an issue for the seller.
4. Issue "credit" to each family member (or couple) in the same amount. Allow those family members to "spend" the credited amount on desired items once the items have been priced. Consider allowing the oldest child to choose one item first and proceeding accordingly.
5. Auction all the items with no preferential treatment to family. Allow family members to bid for items alongside the general public and pay per the same terms.
6. Maintain collections as a single unit to preserve their value. Price collections accordingly rather than by the individual piece.

Tips & Warnings

• Break up a collection by pricing each item and then allowing family members to draw lots for the individual pieces or take turns choosing a favorite.