The Most Considerate Shoppers Follow These Rules of Estate Sale Etiquette

If you’ve ever been to Round Top, Texas’ famed Marburger Farm Antique Show, you know that some antiques lovers aren’t afraid to run for their treasures. The second the tape is cut, the shoppers are off to the races, like something out of the Kentucky Derby. While that thrill-of-the-hunt energy is welcomed—and even celebrated—at such a show, where hundreds of vendors set up shop to peddle wares from all over the globe, what’s considered good behavior is a bit different at estate sales. Take note of these expert-approved estate sale etiquette tips before you go to the next one.

What to Do Before an Estate Sale

Familiarize Yourself with the Rules

Sometimes, a little research ahead of time can save you from an embarrassing—and likely unintentional—etiquette faux pas. “It’s best to educate yourself on the nuances of that sale and company. Not all estate sale companies run their sales the same way,” says Blanton. You should also make note of any specifics surrounding the sale, like where to park, the preferred methods of payment, and what time the doors open.

Call Ahead with Questions

If anything isn’t immediately clear in the sale posting, don’t be afraid to reach out to the company. “I really appreciate people who read the information and terms that are in the listing, or call and ask questions for clarification,” says Blanton. “Rather than waiting until the day of the sale, when 100 people are in line and staff is busy running the estate sale, shoppers should call ahead to ask how things work.”

Depending on the company, you may also be able to garner more specifics on sale items that are pictured and posted online. That way, you’ll know ahead of time if the item pictured is something you’re actually interested in purchasing. 

Proper Estate Sale Etiquette

Arrive Early, But Don’t Expect to Shop Early

While it’s customary to line up well before an estate sale begins (companies will often hand out numbers to acknowledge your place in line), don’t expect that premature arrival to get you in the door a second before the sale officially opens. “Our staff is there working to get ready for the sale, and continual knocks and requests to come in early only hurt the family we are trying to help,” warns Blanton. 

Show Some Respect

Remember that shopping at an estate sale is very different than shopping at an antiques fair or thrift store. Rather than perusing tents or booths set up expressly for your delight, at an estate sale, you’re browsing the once-cherished belongings of a late (or recently moved) homeowner. “I appreciate people who are respectful of the house, the family, the estate sale company, and follow the rules,” notes Blanton. Her model customers are those “who understand that this is a difficult time for a family and that they are most likely dealing with a loss.” 

What Not to Do at An Estate Sale

Forget Common Courtesy

While you may be motivated by a deal, this is not the time to neglect your manners. Some behaviors that land on Blanton’s no-fly list: Parking in the yard, blocking the neighbor’s driveway, fighting with other customers, and taking items off the on-hold table. 

Ask Insensitive Questions

This is one time to keep your morbid curiosity to yourself. Says Blanton, you should never, ever lob intrusive queries like, “Did this person die here?” or similar.