What Sells Best at Estate Sales?
One of the most common questions we hear is:
“Will anyone really want this?”
The answer might surprise you. Estate sale shoppers are a diverse bunch — collectors, resellers, antique lovers, first-time homeowners, decorators, and even DIYers — all searching for unique and useful items. What might seem like everyday clutter to one person can be a treasure to someone else.
Here’s a helpful look at what sells best at estate sales, based on our experience:
1. Furniture — Especially Solid Wood & Vintage Pieces
Quality furniture is always in demand, particularly mid-century, antique, and well-crafted wood pieces. Even dated furniture can sell if it’s sturdy and priced right — especially to DIYers looking to refinish or repaint.
Hot sellers include:
Dressers, sideboards, and dining tables
Bookcases and desks
Upholstered chairs with solid frames
Patio and garden furniture
2. Home Décor & Artwork
Buyers love browsing for decorative pieces — and even lesser-known artwork can sell if it’s interesting or well-framed.
In-demand items include:
Mirrors, lamps, and light fixtures
Wall art, framed prints, and vintage paintings
Clocks, vases, figurines, and pottery
Seasonal or holiday décor
3. Kitchenware & Cookware
Surprisingly, the kitchen is often one of the top-performing rooms during an estate sale. Many shoppers are looking for quality pots, vintage bakeware, or full sets of dishes they can’t find in stores anymore.
Sought-after items include:
Pyrex, CorningWare, and cast iron
China sets and serving dishes
Flatware, utensils, and small appliances
Vintage glassware and barware
4. Tools & Outdoor Equipment
Estate sale regulars love the garage. Tools (even older ones) are top sellers — and they don’t have to be pristine.
Top-selling items include:
Hand tools, power tools, toolboxes
Lawn mowers, trimmers, and gardening tools
Hardware, screws, paints, and workshop supplies
5. Collectibles & Antiques
Even small collections can hold significant value, especially if they’re nostalgic or unusual. If you're not sure whether something is worth selling, let us take a look!
Popular collectible categories:
Coins, stamps, and military memorabilia
Comic books, toys, and games
Vinyl records, vintage electronics
Costume jewelry and timepieces
6. Everyday Essentials
Don’t underestimate the value of everyday items. Shoppers often buy cleaning supplies, linens, office items, and storage containers to save money over buying new.
Final Thoughts: Let the Buyers Decide
As estate sale professionals, we often say: “If in doubt, leave it out — on the table!”
You never know what someone is looking for. Our job is to display, price, and present your items in a way that connects them with the right buyer.
At Heritage & Home Estate Sale Company, we turn homes into inviting shops full of hidden treasures — and we handle all the details so you don’t have to.
Thinking about hosting an estate sale in North Carolina? Contact us today for a free consultation. We’d love to help you uncover what’s truly valuable — and find it a great new home.
