The Best Time Of Year For Estate Sales For Both Buyers And Sellers

An estate sale is an incredible opportunity for someone looking to sell a loved one's personal effects after their demise, or for individuals simply hoping to declutter their current home before a relocation. This event is also a treasure trove for buyers who don't mind adorning their homes with second-hand items as long as they're in good condition (or salvageable). This begs the question: What is the best time of year for a buyer to hold and a seller to attend an estate sale? As it turns out, winters are the most profitable time for sellers while summers benefit buyers.

Generally, sellers don't have the luxury of time and need to offload their (or their loved one's) belongings as soon as possible. But if you aren't in a hurry and can hold off for a bit, it's best to wait for winter to make the most of the estate sale. This is because you won't be competing with yard and garage sales as much. In contrast, the increased competition benefits buyers, as they can choose the sales they want to visit. They might even be able to score great deals due to the intense rivalry.

For buyers and sellers, the simple law of supply and demand defines the best time of year for estate sales. To illustrate, a lot of homeowners hold yard and garage sales in summer because they tend to clean their attics, basement, and garage during the warmer months. Moreover, agreeable weather gets them more traffic and makes selling their belongings easier. Add estate sales to the mix, and there are more events (supply) than the number of buyers (demand). So, summers are good for buyers since they have a veritable buffet and can pick any event that tickles their fancy. Similarly, spring is a good time for buyers.

However, the increased competition during summer and spring means sellers will be constantly vying for customers. So, it's possible that your estate sale won't experience the footfall you were initially expecting and won't be as successful. But the tables turn during winter. With no yard or garage sales and a limited number of estate sales to keep buyers occupied, they get restless. Usually, buyer demand goes unanswered, but you can fill this void and attract buyers by planning an estate sale. The holiday season drives sales, too, as people are often looking to buy unique presents. However, don't schedule the event on Thanksgiving or Christmas, as not a lot of people will show up.