Posted on May 5th, 2023

If you're someone who loves hunting for unique and valuable items, you've likely heard of estate sales. These sales can be a treasure trove of unique and valuable items, from antique furniture to vintage clothing to rare collectibles. But what are the best things to buy at estate sales? And how can you find them online? 

In this blog post, we'll explore the top 12 items to look for at estate sales and give you some tips on how to find them online.

How Do Auctions Work and Why You Shouldn´t Miss Them?

Auctions are a popular way to buy and sell unique and valuable items, from fine art to vintage cars to rare collectibles. But how do auctions work, and why should you consider attending one?

At an auction, items are sold to the highest bidder. The auctioneer will start the bidding at a certain price, and buyers will raise their paddles to indicate their bids. The auctioneer will continue to raise the price until only one bidder remains, who then wins the item. Auctions can be fast-paced and exciting, with the energy of the room driving up prices.

There are several reasons why you shouldn't miss an auction if you're in the market for unique and valuable items. 

• Unique Opportunity for Treasure Hunt: Auctions often offer items that are hard to find elsewhere. Whether it's a rare collectible or a piece of fine art, auctions can be a treasure trove of unique finds.
• Great Deals: Because items are sold to the highest bidder, you can sometimes get items for less than their market value. 
• Fun Experience: Auctions can be a fun experience, with the energy of the room adding to the excitement of the bidding process.

If you're interested in attending an auction, be sure to do your research beforehand. Find out what types of items will be sold, and set a budget for yourself. It's also a good idea to attend a few auctions as an observer before you start bidding, so you can get a sense of how the process works. With a little preparation, attending an auction can be a great way to find unique and valuable items while having a fun and exciting experience.

However, finding and attending estate sales can be a time-consuming and energy-draining task that not everyone can afford. Fortunately, with the rise of online auctions, you can now easily browse and purchase unique items from the comfort of your own home. In the next section, we'll dive into how to find estate sales online and get access to a wide variety of valuable items without having to leave your house.

How to Find Estate Sales Online

There are a few different ways to search for estate sales in your area:

• Estate sale listing websites: Websites like EstateSales.net and EstateSales.org allow you to search for estate sales by location. You can also sign up for email alerts to be notified when new sales are posted in your area. But you still will have to attend the auction in person.
• Social media: Some estate sale companies post information about upcoming sales on their social media channels, so it's worth following them if you're interested in attending their sales. You will also have to be present for the estate sale.
• Online auction websites: Some estate sales are conducted entirely online through auction websites like ER-32 Auctions. Our platform offers a wide variety of items, from antique furniture to vintage clothing to rare collectibles, all in one convenient location. You can browse our listings, place bids on items that catch your eye, and even finalize your purchase and make payments, all without ever leaving our website.

Related: Online Auctions: How to Participate and Score the Best Deals 

12 Items You Should Buy at Estate Sales

Now, let´s go through the top 12 items you don't want to miss at estate sales:

1. Antique and Vintage Jewelry

Antique and vintage jewelry is a timeless investment that never goes out of style. Estate sales are a great place to find unique and valuable pieces at a fraction of their original cost. From diamond engagement rings to art deco brooches, estate sales offer a wide range of jewelry styles to choose from. When buying estate jewelry, it's important to check the condition of the piece, as well as its authenticity. Look for hallmarks, signatures, and other indicators of quality and craftsmanship.

2. Mid-Century Modern Furniture

Mid-century modern furniture is a popular style that has seen a resurgence in recent years. Estate sales often have a great selection of vintage pieces from this era, including chairs, sofas, and tables. Mid-century modern furniture is known for its clean lines, sleek curves, and use of natural materials like wood and leather. If you're looking to add some retro flair to your home, mid-century modern furniture is a great option.

3. Vintage Clothing and Accessories

Vintage clothing and accessories are a great way to add some personality to your wardrobe. Estate sales often have a great selection of vintage items, from flapper dresses to disco-era jumpsuits. Look for high-quality materials like silk and wool, as well as unique details like beading and embroidery. Vintage accessories like hats, gloves, and purses can also be a great find at estate sales.

4. Artwork and Sculptures

Artwork and sculptures can be valuable investments that appreciate in value over time. Estate sales often have a great selection of original paintings, lithographs, and sculptures from both established and lesser-known artists. When buying artwork, it's important to check the condition of the piece, as well as its authenticity. Look for signatures, labels, and other indicators of quality and provenance.

5. Vintage Cameras

Vintage cameras are a great way to capture memories in a unique way. Estate sales often have a great selection of film cameras from different eras, including classic brands like Leica and Hasselblad. Look for cameras that are in good working condition, with lenses that are free from scratches and fungus.

6. Oriental Rugs

Oriental rugs are a classic investment that can add warmth and texture to any home. Estate sales often have a great selection of vintage and antique rugs from different regions, including Persian, Turkish, and Chinese styles. Look for rugs that are in good condition, with no major stains, holes, or fraying.

7. Sterling Silver Flatware

Sterling silver flatware is a timeless investment that can add elegance to any table setting. Estate sales often have a great selection of vintage and antique flatware sets, including brands like Tiffany and Gorham. Look for sets that are in good condition, with all pieces accounted for and no major dents or scratches.

8. Vintage Toys

Vintage toys can be a great find at estate sales, especially if you're a collector. Estate sales often have a great selection of antique and vintage toys, including classic brands like Lionel and Barbie. Look for toys that are in good condition, with all pieces accounted for and no major damage.

9. Musical Instruments

Musical instruments can be valuable investments that appreciate in value over time. Estate sales often have a great selection of vintage and antique instruments, including guitars, violins, and pianos. Look for instruments that are in good working condition, with all parts intact and no

10. Vintage and Antique Books

Vintage and antique books can be valuable investments for book lovers and collectors. Estate sales often have a great selection of rare and out-of-print books, including first editions and signed copies. Look for books that are in good condition, with no major damage or missing pages.

11. Watches

One of the best things to buy at estate sales is watches. You can often find unique and valuable pieces at a fraction of their original cost. Estate sales are a great place to find fine watches from luxury brands. If you're looking for a statement watch, estate sales are a great place to start your search.

12. Home Decor

Another great category of items to buy at estate sales is home decor. Estate sales often have a wide selection of unique home decor items like lamps, vases, and art, from mid-century modern to Victorian styles. If you're looking to decorate your home with unique pieces that you won't find in a typical store, estate sales are a great option.

Conclusion

Estate sales offer a wide range of unique and valuable items that are often hard to find elsewhere. Whether you're a collector, an investor, or just looking for something special for your home, estate sales are a great place to start your search. From antique jewelry to mid-century modern furniture to vintage toys, the possibilities are endless. 

If you don't have the time to attend estate sales in person, why not try online auctions instead? With the convenience of being able to browse and bid on unique items from the comfort of your own home, online auctions like ER-32 Auctions offer a hassle-free alternative to traditional estate sales. So why not give it a try and see what treasures you can uncover?

If you're interested in learning more about our online auctions or have items you'd like to sell, please don't hesitate to reach out to us at (561) 628-6210. Contact us today to learn more!